“We could have a total shutdown in the national economy and still have school in the Barton-Lexa School District,” said Barton-Lexa Superintendent Lee Vent at Tuesday’s school board session. “(It) Makes you feel good doesn’t it.”
Vent’s financial report reflected a growth up $500,000 from last year. Vent also announced that there were “no negatives” in the school’s accounts for the first time in many years.
While the finances are reportedly financially sound, the district is currently in the middle of a new building project. Vent said construction should begin in June. He reported that the project passed all necessary state agencies approval.
“This will be my 17th building project,” announced Vent.
Vent suggested that the district enter into an agreement with a construction management firm. Vent shared the dossier for Nabholz, which the superintendent said was a very sound company.
He said they were bonded, well staffed and financially secure and showed several documents to the board.
“We’re anxious to get started,” commented Vent.
Vent said he had visited several other construction projects the company managed and said all the superintendents he talked with were pleased with the results.
Board member Travis Williams asked about bids and revealed that the company called him at the Helena-
West Helena Fire Department where he’s assistant chief. Williams said the company called about a fire-related issue with the construction and had been told they were already hired.
Vent said that he gave the company “the green light,” but if the board wanted, they could vote against it.
Williams was the only “no” vote and made a statement about his choice.
“I voted against it because of the phone call,” he remarked.
In other financial news concerning the district, the board unanimously voted to enroll in TAPS (Texas Arkansas Purchasing System).
Vent said he felt it was something the district should be involved and gave the district “more clout” when bidding on building supplies.
Sarah Cox, administrative assistant, said she mailed each member a brochure about the TAPS program.
Vent said that enrolling in the program would save the district at least 11 percent when buying building supplies.
Williams moved to enroll and a resolution was passed, gaining a unanimous vote.
Vent gave an update on American Recovery & Reinvestment Act Funds that are available to the district. He said that the district must be able to prove that any funds spent improve the students’ education and comply with the standards set. He said the rules were outlined in a 150-page document and that the district was collaborating with other districts.
Vent said that some special sessions might be called to handle the matter. Board President Loyd Oxner asked that Vent give the board a few days notice when calling a special session.
