School Board Moves Bus Barn, Saves Cash

At its Aug. 11 meeting, the McDonald County R-1 School District Board of Education heard a quote for the construction of a proposed bus barn in Pineville.

John Kelsh of Controlled Technology Solutions, the contractor for the project, presented the board with a price not to exceed $1.9 million.

He reported that the team has been working to sketch final drawings.

“Not construction-quality drawings, but almost there,” Kelsh said.

The new bus barn will be located behind Pineville Primary School on Pleasant Ridge Road. The 9,425-square-foot facility will have a four-bay garage with a pit in one of the bays; a driver area with restrooms, shower and a conference room; and storage for parts and tires.

After discussing the function of the building and the flow of traffic, the board decided to turn the building and have it face west, towards the water tower.

“Is there any reason to decorate the front then if it won’t face the roadway?” Dr. Mark Stanton asked.

A minimum of $10,000 was saved

by removing visual aesthetics, like masonry, from the building’s facade.

Board members reviewed color schemes.

The board also proposed a tax levy of $3.42 per $100 of assessed valuation for the 2016 year.

“This is an exciting time in our district,” Stanton said in closing. “We are very fortunate for our facilities and our faculty.” In other business: • The board voted to approve 52 bus routes outlined for this year as well as the 52 full-time drivers and two substitutes needed to keeping things rolling.

• The board approved the expense for 2,354 miles driven during Migrant Summer School.

• The board voted to adopt the State Compliance Plan.

• The board approved an instructional stipend rate of $25 per hour.

• The board approved a tuition rate of $8,065.38 for those that live outside of the district but wish to attend school here.