Anderson school board declares emergency to fast-track $527,773 roof repairs at Highland Middle School

The Anderson Community School Corp. board on March 30 unanimously approved Resolution R-2026-11 to declare an emergency and accelerate roof repairs at Highland Middle School after a March 13 storm damaged multiple roof sections.

Mr. Elmore, a presenter for the school corporation, told the board that the district received damage estimates for two buildings: North Side Intermediate at about $85,578 and Highland Middle School, where damage exceeded the $150,000 threshold that requires a formal bidding process. "The lowest quote that we received was from Frederick's Contractors, which is based in Pendleton, in the amount of $527,773 to replace the four sections at that building," Mr. Elmore said.

The emergency declaration invokes Indiana Code 36-1-12-9 to allow the district to proceed using the received quotes rather than waiting for the usual bidding timeline, Mr. Elmore said, citing concern that additional severe weather could cause further damage if repairs are delayed. He told the board, "I ask for the board's approval of resolution R-2026-11." He also explained why insurance will not cover the full cost: "Our wind and hail deductible at Highland Middle School is 1% of the insured value of that building...1% of that is $870,000," Mr. Elmore said, indicating the deductible exceeds the estimated repair costs.

Board members asked questions about the procurement and timeline before voting. A motion to approve the emergency declaration was made and seconded; the board then conducted a roll-call vote. Mr. Chamberlain, Dr. Hill, Miss Rens, Mrs. Colette and Miss Green each voted in favor; the motion passed unanimously.

A district staff member, Tyler, said crews have completed emergency temporary repairs to limit further damage and that Frederick's Contractors has the necessary materials. "We're looking at May 30th to have everything complete," Tyler said. When a board member asked whether the work would interfere with classroom time, Tyler replied, "No, it should not."

The vendors solicited for quotes included Adams Roofing, Foster Contracting, Frederick's Contractors (Pendleton) and Roofing Systems of Indiana; Frederick's submitted the lowest bid for the Highland scope. North Side Intermediate's repairs are below the $150,000 threshold and will be addressed through standard procedures.

With the resolution approved, the district will proceed under the emergency declaration to contract for the Highland roof replacement; the board recorded the vote and adjourned the special session.