BEACHWOOD – This summer, Toms River Intermediate South will undergo important roof repairs, amidst concerns regarding the district’s financial health.
Tim Sullivan from Becht Engineering, serving as the project’s main manager, outlined the plans at a recent Board of Education meeting. The work includes replacing the roof along with its supporting structures, improving water drainage, and updating the insulation to meet modern standards. Additionally, a protective water repellant will be applied to the cleaned masonry.
Pravco, Inc., having presented the lowest bid at $5,590,000, was selected for the job, covering just two out of the four necessary phases due to budget constraints. The initial phase focuses on the main building and courtyard, while the second addresses the gym and cafetorium, as stated by Business Administrator William Doering.
The decision was unanimously approved by the six Board members present: James Capone, Board President Kathleen Eagan, Jennifer Howe, Kevin Kidney, Joseph Nardini, and Anna Polozzo, with three members absent.
Superintendent Michael Citta highlighted the financial challenges, indicating that the $5.5 million allocated for the roof repair cannot remedy the district’s budget shortfall. Facing a considerable deficit of $26.5 million for the 2024-2025 academic year, the district is still seeking ways to bridge the funding gap, despite newfound flexibility in tax policies and some available funding.
The project is financed through the capital reserve fund, required by law to remain separate from the operating budget. Although the district sought a grant from the NJ Schools Development Authority, the application was unsuccessful.
With work slated to begin this summer, completion is expected by late summer or early fall. In a positive note, the district secured $600,000 in grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the acquisition of eight new propane buses and two electric buses, which are more eco-friendly and cost-effective than diesel options. This grant will contribute to but not entirely cover the cost of the new vehicles.