The USD 470 Board of Education has approved moving forward with the purchase and renovation of the former Arkansas City Medical Clinic on Radio Lane.
After reviewing cost estimates from McCownGordon Construction, the board approved extending an offer of $460,000 for the property at 510 W. Radio Lane. The board also approved a comprehensive renovation option to convert the building into a combined district office and technology facility.
District officials said the project would consolidate operations, streamline storage needs and provide space for future growth.
Funding for the renovation would come in part from bond funds and capital outlay. Board members also discussed ongoing needs to maintain and upgrade HVAC systems and other infrastructure across district buildings. Officials noted the district’s lower bond interest rate resulted in more than $3 million in savings, providing flexibility for additional projects as bond sales are finalized.
District leaders also said plans are in place to sell the current district office, which would help offset project costs.
In other action, the board approved contracting with ESSDACK in partnership with the Southeast Kansas Education Service Center, known as Greenbush, to conduct a superintendent search. Dr. Chad Higgins will serve as lead consultant. The search is expected to take eight to 12 weeks.