Serving Whitman County since 1877
Serving Whitman County since 1877
The Colfax School District may put forth a special levy this spring for security improvements at the elementary and high school buildings.
The subject was discussed at the school board meeting Monday night.
Superintendent Michael Morgan reported to the board that an architect hired by the district earlier this month had issued his recommendations for security improvements.
The suggestions of Laurence Rose of Design West in Pullman included replacing wooden doors, remodeling the main entrance at Jennings Elementary, installing panic buttons in classrooms, putting electronic doors at front entrances which can be locked remotely and more.
In addition, he included an estimate for the cost of 12 security cameras, including licenses and data storage, for $52,280.
The overall cost of the improvements would be between $275,000 and $300,000, said Morgan. He indicated that if the work was done in 2013 as opposed to 2014, the district could save as much as 6.8 percent due to available financing options.
“It could be a one-year shot, or spread out over two,” Morgan said.
In order to put a levy on the April ballot, the school board would have to approve a resolution by their Feb. 25 meeting.
Morgan said that whatever dollar amount a levy may be for, if the project comes in at less cost, the unnecessary money would not be collected.
“I’m thinking… slow down,” said Boardmember Laura Johnson. “I don’t know.”
Brian Becker then spoke in support of a new entryway and new doors.
Johnson later told the Gazette she wants to be sure the community has input on what security measures are deemed appropriate.
The Colfax school board will meet again on Feb. 11.
Garth Meyer is a former Whitman County Gazette reporter.
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