Photo by Rich Wicks
During the Kingsland School Board meeting on September 7, the board heard from Brian Miller, representing the Garland Company. Miller showed pictures from 2020 and 2021, and explained that the windstorm in 2021 partially lifted the roofing, which allowed the insulation to be shifted around, resulting in an uneven roof surface. He said this causes pooling of water, which will accelerate the aging and cracking of the roofing surface.
Miller said the Garland Company not only provides materials, but also oversees the entire roofing project, which means Kingsland would only deal with Garland for any concerns, rather than chasing after contractors (who may be out of business as years pass). He proposed two basic options for repairing the roof. He said the roof currently has a gypsum base, with insulation and a rubberlike top layer. This could be replaced for around $270,000. But he recommended a more durable process with multiple layers, and extended lifespan, for around $385,000. He said the single membrane roofing can develop punctures or leaks, while the multiple layer process is much more durable. He added, “If you drop a hammer on this, it’s going to be fine.”
Superintendent Scott Klavetter pointed out that, after inspections and discussions, the insurance company has agreed to pay for the cost of replacing the roofing as is ($270,000), so if Kingsland chose the more expensive option, Kingsland would be responsible for roughly $115,000. He recommended that the board make a decision at the next board meeting, on September 19.
Miller shared that Garland has done roofing projects for many schools in southeast Minnesota, including Austin, Pine Island, Winona, Red Wing, and Faribault. Following Miller’s presentation, Cindy Seabright stated, “I was impressed… Sometimes, you need to spend a little more to get a better product that lasts longer.” Maranda Emig shared her opinion, saying, “We don’t want to stick another (future) school board with this problem. I want to fix it now.” No board action was taken at this time.
Superintendent Klavetter updated the board on ideas for the track replacement project. He said Kingsland has cost estimates for if Kingsland chooses to simply add soil and sod to return the track back to a grassy condition. He added that Nate Carolan (Building & Grounds director) is collecting information on the estimated costs of two other options. One is to blacktop the track, and the other is to create a “milled” track surface with a two or three lane track. Klavetter added that besides the cross country team, there are also community members who come to walk around the track. Klavetter will bring more data back to the board at a future meeting, to consider costs and options.
Judy Tart’s Foodservice written report to the board included, “We’ve hired two foodservice workers. We need a part-time server and then will be fully staffed… Ala carte and meal prices have been updated on the website and in the cashier computers. Thank you, Jill, Luke, and Cristin.”
Laurie Hendrickson’s Activity Director’s report included, “Here is what I have for final registration numbers for fall sports: Cross Country 17 (11 girls, 6 boys), Football 44, Volleyball 42… The streaming of VB and Football was viewed by A LOT of people. I can’t thank our sponsors enough for allowing us to do that.”
Klavetter shared, “We plan to remind our students of our cell phone policy and ensure it is being enforced across classrooms. We strive to create an environment where cell phones are not a distraction, and students are learning the skill of appropriate use.”
The board also acknowledged additional sponsorships for the HUDL program (video of Kingsland athletics and events).
Kingsland’s next school board meeting will be a regular meeting on Monday, September 19 at 6pm. The public is welcome.
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