May 14, 2012 at 4:30 PM - Business Committee Meeting

Discussion:  Also in attendance were Don Hague and Tim Meisner

Discussion:  The committee had reviewed the distribution listing prior to the meeting. Miles expressed a concern about printer purchases. All computer realted purchases are run through the district's IT department before approval. End of year purchases at the building level were discussed. Brunner asked if the pre-meeting review process can be streamlined. The committee was asked if district payments could be made earlier by changing the cut off date. This would address vendor terms in a more timely manner. After discussions, it was determined that the full board will continue to approve all payments, with the exception of utility payments, which will be made in a timely manner to avoid late fees and shut offs. A flyer will be included with our next round of payments detailing the districts payment poloicy.

Discussion:  Meisner detailed the payment application. Includes 5% of retainage fee. No bill was received from the architect this month. Change orders were discussed. The facilities committee will meet there later this week. 1) JODY 2) BRUNNER

Discussion:  Hague explained that Richard Schank will be designated to work on the High School roof. A projected cost was reviewed.

Discussion:  Hague explained that the Curriculum Committee has recommended this textbook purchase.

Discussion:  The committee was informed that these will be consumable textbooks needed after an inventory was taken of on-hand materials.

Discussion:  The minutes from the interlocal meeting were reviewed. Scottbluff Public Schools Superintendent Rick Myles was designated as the President of the Interlocal Board. The board includes superintendents from each participating district.

Discussion:  RBC Capital advised Business Manager Tim Meisner that interest rates have fallen and savings dictate that it would be a beneficial time to refinance the district's Build American Bonds. Meisner explained that the district could save approximately $300,000 net over the life of the 20 year bond. The committee recommended this go to the full board.

Discussion:  Meisner explained upcoming changes in the food services program. Increased lunch prices were also reviewed. The adjustment accomodates federal requirements. Gering is in compliance will all federal guidelines and requirements. Gering's lunch prices are now the same as Scottsbluff's district. This will go to the full board for final approval

Discussion:  A bid for the new storage foundation was reviewed from Anderson & Shaw. Owner's Rep Brian Sweeney reviewed all bid applications and ensured that all bids were similar. A total of 3 bids were reviewed: Paul Reed, Infinity Construction and Anderson & Shaw. Grading specifics were also discussed. This will allow for future concrete additions for the parking area at the high school.

Discussion:  Brunner suggested that the district subscribe to a 3rd party firewall and server provider. Meisner will look into outsourcing these areas. Copsey provided an example of how his business utilizes a local vendor. Hague suggested contacting ESU to find out who their provider is. RWMC will also be contacted to see who they utilize for these services. Costs will be reviewed to see if this would be feasible. An additional position is being developed for the IT department to assist them in their daily tasks.