Projects ready for shovels

CHARLO — Charlo schools construction plans are moving along. At Tuesday’s school board meeting, trustees were told of the progress.

Construction manager Chris Cheff told the school board that more than 70 bidders are interested in the construction.

“We had a real good showing,” Cheff said of the meetings.

Trustees discussed the addendum of the contract with Cheff, which would include a storm water plan. As there are large puddles around the school, a simple pond approach would eliminate the puddle problem at a minimal charge to the school.

The pond would only be 2-feet deep at the most, Cheff said, adding that the pond will be dry “for the most part.”

A special board meeting was held last Thursday to further discuss the bidders.

The board unanimously hired assistant coaches for the high school and junior high football and volleyball teams.

Other items on the agenda included a land transfer of a family within the St. Ignatius school district, and classified staff negotiations.

Of Amy Trion’s four children three attend the Charlo schools, and one will go to kindergarten next year. She said the reason for approaching the board at this time was because the land used to belong to her brother.

“It would not affect transportation or enrollment, the only affect is tax coming to Charlo,” Trion said, adding that her children would enjoy being official Vikings like their neighbors and classmates.

There was confusion over the amount of land that would be transferred over and about future transfers.

“We just want to be a part of the community,” Trion said.

The motion to approve the transfer was carried and Trion will now go to the St. Ignatius school board to receive their permission for the transfer.

Superintendent Bill Colter spoke to the board about summer construction projects, which include replacing the metal roof over the shop area, the hot water boilers in the junior high addition, high school and junior high exterior door and carpets.

“Safety is our priority,” Colter said, adding that most of the projects will be covered through the weatherization budget.

As board committees are being decided among the new trustees, a classified staff contract negotiations meeting will not take place until committees are established.

“That leaves a sour taste in my mouth,” said chairman Shawn Perry. “We’ve always been fair to them.”

In other business a grant to purchase a new bus is being written, and Colter was given permission to interview for part-time summer help.

A special meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. tonight.