Hulbert School Board approves bond election
Jan. 12—The Hulbert School Board of Education, during a meet Jan. 11, discussed an upcoming special election for a new bond issue.
The board approved a resolution authorizing a special election in the district for issuance of general obligation bonds. Superintendent Jolyn Choate said the election for the eight-year bond will be held in April. Two resolutions are included, which explains the lengthy duration.
"One is for transportation and is for acquiring some property, so we can make plans to improve the district," Choate said.
The board approved the employment of Stephen H. McDonald and Associates Inc. as financial consultant to Hulbert Public Schools.
"They're the company that helps out with our bond, so we voted to have them partner with us," Choate said.
The board accepted the Investment Grade Audit agreement with the Energy Solutions Professionals LLC. Choate said the group essentially did an the school's utility bill and they believe they can save the district around $26,000 a year.
Choate said the IGA will be a deeper look into the utilities, and that process will take place over several days, instead of just one, as with the original assessment.
An agenda item involving a property at West Sixth Street, a half acre adjacent to the 99-year lease property housing the ag building, was approved. Choate said the district's purchase of the property will allow expansion of the ag program. Some potential uses of the property include adding a garden or a show animal barn.
The board also approved the 2024-'25 calendar.
During an executive session, members discussed Choate's contract and contract extension. The contract was approved for the 2025 school year. According to a past TDP article, Choate's base salary was $108,000 plus benefits, as of July 1, 2023.
The item involving the contracts for non-certified personal was tabled for a later meeting due to the contract being written incorrectly.
Positions for bus drivers and substitute teachers were approved for the 2024 school year. One resignation was accepted from Dillon Bluebird.
What's next
The Hulbert School Board of Education will meet again Feb. 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the high school auditorium.
