Toms River board approves Intermediate South roof and façade project using capital reserve funds

The Toms River Regional School District Board of Education voted May 23, 2024, to award bids for a multi‑phase roof and façade replacement at Intermediate South, authorizing the use of the district's capital reserve funds after a presentation by Beck Engineering and discussion about funding constraints.

Board members heard a presentation from Tim Sullivan of Beck Engineering outlining a phased project. "This is a presentation meant to introduce the proposed project for Intermediate South building," Sullivan said, describing Phase 1 as targeting the center courtyards and calling for a complete roof replacement with a new granulated, modified two‑ply membrane and upgraded insulation to R30. Phase 2 would address the gymnasium and cafeteria roofs, parapet rebuilding and additional masonry repairs, Sullivan said, including new flashings, sealant replacement and application of a water‑repellent to the façade.

A board member raised questions about district budgets and how large capital projects fit into the school budget. According to the transcript, a board official identified as Mr. Doran clarified the funding source: "This project is being funded by capital reserve dollars which are a separate legal reserve just for such endeavors," he said, adding that the district could not reallocate capital reserve funds to cover regular operating expenses. The official also said the project would substantially draw down the district's capital reserve but described the work as "long overdue" based on need.

Board members also asked a technical question about the masonry waterproofing. Sullivan described the product as "a silane‑based" spray‑on liquid that is absorbed into the masonry and offered to provide the exact chemical specification to the board.

A motion to approve the board secretary's agenda item for award of bids was made by Plaza and seconded by Nordini. The roll call recorded in the transcript shows Capone, How, Kidney, Palazo, Nardini and Ean voting yes; the board announced the approval and then adjourned the special meeting.

The award of bids authorizes the district to proceed to contracting for the described work at Intermediate South. The transcript does not list contract amounts or the specific vendor awarded; those details were not specified in the record and may appear in subsequent procurement filings or minutes.