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09-04-2001 |
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DATE, TIME, PLACE OF MEETING The Calcasieu Parish School Board met in the Conference Room of the Calcasieu Parish School Board located at 1732 Kirkman Street, Lake Charles, Louisiana, on Tuesday, September 4, 2001, at 5:00 p.m. Sheral A. LaVergne, President, called the meeting to order. Mr. Armentor led the prayer; Mr. Robert led the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL The roll was called and the following members were present: Joe A. Andrepont, Randall C. Armentor, Ricky Blackwell, Wilridge P. Doucet, Clara F. Duhon, Jay L. Duhon, Carla C. Duplechin, John M. Falgout, L. J. "Berk" Fontenot, James W. Karr, Sr., Sheral A. LaVergne, James W. Pitre, Gregory P. Robert, Philip Tarver and Elray T. Victorian. MINUTES APPROVED On motion by Mr. Andrepont, seconded by Mr. Karr, and unanimously carried, the minutes of the regular meeting of August 7, 2001, were approved as presented. SUPPLEMENTAL AGENDA On motion by Mrs. Duplechin, seconded by Mr. Doucet, and unanimously carried, the Supplemental Agenda was included as part of the regular agenda. PRESENTATIONS Mrs. LaVergne, Chair, introduced Mr. W. F. “ Freddie” Whitford, Louisiana School Board Association’s Executive Director; Mr. Sonny Savoie, President of Louisiana School Board Association (LSBA) and Representative Vic Stelly. Calcasieu Association of Educators Executive Board Mark Hayes, President Calcasieu Association of Educators, introduced the following CAE Executive Board and staff members for 2001-2002:
Mr. Hayes thanked the Board for their continued support. Teaching and Technology³ Institute Judy Ellis, Vice-President, Calcasieu Association of Educators announced that The “Teaching and Technology³ Institute” conference would be held on Saturday, September 29, 2001, at the Calcasieu Parish Technology Center and Reynaud Middle School. She reported that the conference is a professional development opportunity supporting the work of the Region V educators and personnel. The Board members were encouraged to attend. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget/Fiscal Management John Falgout, Chairman, reported that the Budget/Fiscal Management Committee met on August 14, 2001; a quorum was present. It was reported that Representative Vic Stelly advised the committee that the City of Lake Charles agreed to pay Sales Tax District Number 3 twenty-five percent (25%) of their sales tax revenues from the new Super Wal-Mart Store, not to exceed a maximum of $350,000 annually. This agreement was due to the loss of sales tax revenues in Sales Tax District Number 3 from the closing of the Wal-Mart Store in Moss Bluff. Sales Tax District Number 3 has $14.7 million in bonded indebtedness for schools and school related facilities and the sales tax reimbursement from the City would allow them to continue to meet debt obligations. Mr. Falgout moved on behalf of the committee to approve the following resolution authorizing the superintendent to sign all documents related to the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between the City of Lake Charles, Sales Tax District Number 3 and the Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.: YEAS: Mr. Andrepont, Mr. Armentor, Mr. Blackwell, Mr. Doucet, Mrs. Duhon, Mr. Duhon, Ms. Duplechin, Mr. Falgout, Mr. Fontenot, Mr. Karr, Ms. LaVergne, Mr. Pitre, Mr. Robert, Mr. Tarver and Mr. Victorian NAYS: None RESOLUTION A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALES TAX DISTRICT NO. THREE OF CALCASIEU PARISH, LOUISIANA, TO PROCEED WITH A VALIDATION PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO A COOPERATIVE ENDEAVOR AND FINANCING AGREEMENT AMONG THE DISTRICT, THE CITY OF LAKE CHARLES, AND WAL-MART STORES, INC., AND SUBSEQUENT TO APPROVAL, AUTHORIZING JUDE W. THERIOT, SUPERINTENDENT, TO EXECUTE THE COOPERATIVE ENDEAVOR AND FINANCING AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE DISTRICT. WHEREAS, Sales Tax District No. Three of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana (the “DISTRICT”) on November 30, 2000, issued, sold and delivered $14,770,000 of its Public School Improvement Sales Tax Revenue Bonds, ST Series 2000 (the “BONDS”), which are secured by and payable from the avails and proceeds of a 1-1/2% sales and use tax approved by the voters of the DISTRICT on July 15, 2000; and WHEREAS, the BONDS are secured by and payable from sales tax collections within the DISTRICT, a significant portion of which are generated and collected by sales of merchandise within the existing Wal-Mart facility within the DISTRICT; and WHEREAS, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (the “COMPANY”) proposes to acquire and construct a new Wal-Mart Super Center within the City of Lake Charles, Louisiana (the “CITY”) which will thereafter result in the closure of the existing Wal-Mart facility within the DISTRICT, and the consequent loss of Tax revenues to the DISTRICT; and WHEREAS, the COMPANY, the CITY and the DISTRICT propose to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Financing Agreement dated as of October 1, 2001 (the “Agreement”) to replace for the DISTRICT the loss of sales tax revenues occasioned by the closure of the existing Wal-Mart store within the DISTRICT; and WHEREAS, La. R.S. 13:5121, et seq., provides a method for determining the validity of any action taken which provides a new or different source of payment or security for outstanding bonds, including the Agreement; and WHEREAS, the DISTRICT desires to authorize the filing of such a validation proceeding in connection with the Agreement, and upon conclusion of such proceeding, to authorize execution and delivery of the Agreement; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Parish School Board, governing authority of Sales Tax District No. Three of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, as follows: SECTION 1. Joseph A. Delafield, Attorney at Law, is hereby authorized to proceed with a validation proceeding on behalf of the Sales Tax District No. Three of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, pursuant to the provisions of La. R.S. 13:5121, et seq., in connection with that certain Cooperative Endeavor and Financing Agreement by and among the District, the City of Lake Charles, and Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., a copy of which is annexed hereto as Exhibit A. SECTION 2. The School Board, governing authority of Sales Tax District No. Three of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, upon completion and approval of validation proceedings, does hereby authorize execution and delivery of the Cooperative Endeavor and Financing Agreement dated as of October 1, 2001, in substantially the form as shown on Exhibit A. SECTION 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this 4th day of September 2001. /s/ Sheral A. LaVergne SHERAL A. LAVERGNE, President ATTEST: /s/ Jude W. Theriot JUDE W. THERIOT, Secretary Next, Mr. Falgout reported that Marla Jefferson, representative of Johnson Controls, Incorporated updated the progress and impact of services and products delivered to the School System as a result of the Performance Based Energy and Operational Efficiency Program. Johnson Controls, Inc. has established an HVAC preventive maintenance program and performed both scheduled and unscheduled service and repairs on the automatic (pneumatic) temperature controls and facility energy management systems. As of March 2001, the school system has realized $1.8 million in total savings since the commencement of the contract. Energy savings for the first quarter of 2001 were $263,000. The first year’s net savings benefited the system by an overage of $32,000 and $109,000 in the second year. It was reported that a Facility Consulting Pilot Program was implemented at Gillis Elementary School in which Johnson Controls, Inc. invested $13,000 in improvements. Since implementation of the program, Gillis has shown a total savings of $2,893 in utilities. Johnson Controls, Inc. would like to implement improvements with the same pilot program in other schools with no initial cost to the school system on a shared savings basis. It was noted that staff requested permission to negotiate the percentage with Johnson Controls, Inc. prior to approving other pilot locations. Mr. Falgout stated that Associated Design Group addressed the committee and stated that the reports submitted had been evaluated. It was noted that the numbers were favorable and measured actual energy consumption with weather factored into the numbers. Mr. Falgout moved on behalf of the committee that the staff be given permission to negotiate with Johnson Controls, Inc. for the implementation of the Facility Consulting Pilot Program on a shared savings basis. The motion was voted on and carried unanimously. Mr. Falgout moved on behalf of the committee that the reporting of the first two years of the contract with Johnson Controls, Inc. be approved as presented. The motion was voted on and carried unanimously. Mr. Falgout reported that Mr. Bruchhaus advised the committee that beginning with Fiscal Year 2001-2002, the Louisiana Accounting and Uniform Governmental Handbook was changed to classify as a supply any item costing under $1,000 per unit. Mr.Falgout moved on behalf of the committee that any item costing under $1,000 per unit be reclassified as a supply in the Calcasieu Parish School Board’s Fixed Assets Procedures Manual. The motion carried unanimously. The next item of discussion was the development of an energy policy that was previously mandated in the Johnson Controls contract. Staff requested permission to establish a staff energy committee with a cross section of employees represented to review the policy. The committee would examine the policy for reasonableness and discuss potential financial incentives for the schools to save money. After the policy has been refined, it would then be brought back to the Budget/fiscal Management Committee for final approval and adoption. Mr. Falgout moved on behalf of the committee that an energy committee be established to review and refine the preliminary draft of the energy policy and to bring the final draft back to the Budget/Fiscal Management Committee for approval and adoption. The motion carried unanimously. Next, Mr. Falgout reported that the committee discussed the possibility of constructing additional pods, specifically at Nelson and DeQuincy Elementary Schools. It was reported that riverboat funds available would be approximately $250,000 and that each classroom costs about $47,000. It was stated that $250,000 would be insufficient to begin another significant pod project. Additional debt would be necessary should the Board decide to move forward with the building of additional pods. The maximum funds available through bond sales total $3 million. Mr. Falgout moved, on behalf of the committee to recommend the acceptance of staff’s recommendation for pods to be built at all workable sites (Barbe Elementary School, Dolby Elementary School, Brentwood Elementary School, DeQuincy Elementary School, Oak Park Middle School) for a total of $1.2 million. Mr. Falgout made an amendment to the motion, seconded by Mr. Karr to include all schools listed on the updated chart. This would include the additional schools, Fairview Elementary, Henry Heights Elementary and Iowa High School as listed below: School Name Number of Classrooms in Pod
There was discussion regarding the necessity of the pods at the various sites. Mr. Tarver amended the first amendment, seconded by Mr. Armentor to include the construction of canopies for the schools listed below:
Total $305,000 There was discussion concerning the importance of canopies so all students will be covered when traveling from one location to another. It was noted that the ultimate goal is to keep the students dry. There was discussion concerning the expense. Mr Bruchhaus stated that selling $2,000,000 in excess revenue certificates would cover the cost. Mrs. Duhon made a motion, seconded by Mr. Victorian to add a canopy to J. J. Johnson. It was reported that a canopy was already included in the J. J. Johnson project. Mrs. Duhon stated it didn’t cover a sufficient area. After discussion, Mrs. Duhon withdrew her motion with the second withdrawn. Mrs. LaVergne asked for a vote on amendment number two to construct canopies at College Oaks Elementary School, S. J. Welsh Middle School, St. John Elementary School and Sam Houston High School. The motion was approved. The first amendment to construct additional pods at Fairview Elementary, Henry Height Elementary, and Iowa High School including canopies at College Oaks Elementary School, S. J. Welsh Middle School, St. John Elementary School and Sam Houston High School was voted on. The motion was approved. Mrs. LaVergne asked for a vote on the main motion as amended to build additional classroom pods at Barbe Elementary School, Brentwood Elementary School, DeQuincy Elementary School, Dolby Elementary School, Fairview Elementary School, Henry Heights Elementary School, Iowa High School, Nelson Elementary School, and Oak Park Middle School including canopies at College Oaks Elementary School, S. J. Welsh Middle School, Sam Houston High School, and St. John Elementary School. The motion was voted on and approved. It was then moved by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Tarver to adopt a resolution authorizing the Calcasieu Parish School Board to proceed with development of a project involving issuance of not exceeding $2,000,000 excess revenue certificates of indebtedness. The Parish School Board of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, met in regular public session at 5:00 o'clock p.m. on Tuesday, September 4. 2001, at the regular meeting place of said Board in the Calcasieu Parish School Board Office, Lake Charles, Louisiana, pursuant to the provisions of written notice given to each and every member thereof and duly posted in the manner required by law. President, Sheral A. LaVergne, called the meeting to order and on roll call, the following members were present: Joe A. Andrepont, Randy Armentor, Ricky Blackwell, Wilridge Doucet, Clara F. Duhon, J. L. “Jay” Duhon, Carla C. Duplechin, John M. Falgout, L. J. “Berk” Fontenot, James W. Karr, Sr., Sheral LaVergne, James W. Pitre, Greg Robert, Philip E. Tarver, and Elray T. Victorian ABSENT: None Jude W. Theriot, Board Secretary, also attended. The meeting was called to order and the roll called with the above results. Thereupon, on motion made by Mr.Doucet and seconded by Mr. Tarver the following resolution was unanimously adopted: RESOLUTION A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD TO PROCEED WITH DEVELOPMENT OF A PROJECT INVOLVING ISSUANCE OF NOT EXCEEDING $2,000,000 EXCESS REVENUE CERTIFICATES OF INDEBTEDNESS (CLASSROOM FACILITIES PROJECT), SERIES 2001, AUTHORIZING APPLICATION TO THE LOUISIANA STATE BOND COMMISSION, AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER MATTERS WITH RESPECT THERETO. WHEREAS, the Calcasieu Parish School Board (the “Issuer”) is a political subdivision of the State of Louisiana within the meaning of Subsection 2 of Section 44 of Article VI of the Louisiana Constitution of 1974, and Sections 2922 and 2923 of Title 33 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, (the “Act”); WHEREAS, it is projected that the general fund budget of the Issuer for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2002, will show an estimated excess of revenues over statutory, necessary and usual charges and all other expenses for such fiscal year in the total amount of $18 million, as will more fully appear by reference to said budget; WHEREAS, after carefully investigating and studying the actual revenues and expenditures and all matters in connection therewith for that portion of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2002, the Issuer has found and does hereby find and determine that the actual surplus for said fiscal year will, in all probability, be in excess of the projected excess set forth above in the aforesaid budget; WHEREAS, the estimates contained in the aforesaid budget are also deemed reasonable and conservative in view of the operating experience over the past several years, as reflected by the official audits, over the general fund revenues and expenditures; WHEREAS, the Act authorizes the Issuer to make and enter into contracts dedicating the excess of annual revenues of subsequent years above statutory, necessary and usual charges to the payment of that portion of the cost of public improvements which is to be borne by the Issuer under such contacts, provided all such dedications do not exceed the estimated excess of revenues over said statutory, necessary and usual charges of the year in which the contract is made; WHEREAS, the Issuer desires to incur debt and issue not exceeding TWO MILLION AND NO/100 ($2,000,000.00) DOLLARS in Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness in the manner authorized and provided by the Act and as hereinafter specified, to obtain ready funds to pay a portion of the costs of construction of certain classroom facilities (the “Project”); WHEREAS, it has been determined by the Issuer that after meeting statutory, necessary and usual charges, there will remain ample undedicated funds to pay debt service on the Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness herein authorized; WHEREAS, the Issuer will seek approval of the Louisiana State Bond Commission on October 18, 2001, for approval of the issuance, sale and delivery of not to exceed TWO MILLION AND NO/100 ($2,000,000.00) DOLLARS of Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness of the Issuer, at an interest rate not to exceed seven (7%) percent per annum, to be repaid over a ten (10) year period, said funds to be used for the purpose of financing the Project in the various Calcasieu Parish Schools (the “Certificates”), and which Certificates are to be secured by and payable from the excess of annual revenues accruing to the budget of the Issuer for the ten (10) year period during which the Certificates are outstanding, above statutory, necessary and usual charges; WHEREAS, said Certificates may be sold in a single or multiple series and shall be sold to a purchaser deemed to be most favorable to the Issuer, at the price of not less than par and accrued interest to date of delivery; NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Calcasieu Parish School Board, governing authority of the Calcasieu Parish School System, Lake Charles, Louisiana, as follows: SECTION 1. The Issuer does hereby authorize undertaking and development of the Project involving the proposed issuance by the Issuer of not exceeding $2,000,000 Calcasieu Parish School Board Excess Revenue Certificates of Indebtedness (Classroom Facilities Project), Series 2001 (the “Certificates”), at an interest rate not to exceed seven (7%) percent per annum, to be repaid over a ten (10) year period, which Certificates are to be secured by and payable from the excess of annual revenues accruing to the budget of the Issuer for the ten (10) year period during which the Certificates are outstanding, above statutory, necessary and usual charges. The Certificates may be sold in a single or multiple series and shall be sold to a purchaser deemed to be most favorable to the Issuer, at the price of not less than par and accrued interest to date of delivery. SECTION 2. There being a real public necessity for the retention and employment of legal counsel to provide specialized legal services as described in Section 3 hereof, in connection with the issuance of the Certificates by the Issuer, for the purpose of financing construction of certain classroom facilities for school buildings of the Calcasieu Parish School Board within the Parish of Calcasieu, State of Louisiana, in accordance with the provisions of Sections 2922 and 2923 of Title 33 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and it appearing that the public interest requires the obtaining of such specialized legal services, Joseph A. Delafield, Esq., of Lake Charles, Louisiana “"Bond Counsel”), is hereby employed in accordance with the provisions of this resolution. SECTION 3. Legal services to be provided hereunder include comprehensive legal and coordinate professional work described in Paragraphs (A) through (K) as follows: (A) counseling and advising the Issuer relative to all legal and financial matters in connection with the issuance of the Certificates; (B) making a survey of the financial resources and debt structure of the Issuer to determine the extent of its borrowing capacity and sources of funds to secure the Certificates; (C) formulating a plan of finance which contains complete details of the proposed Certificates, the security features thereof, estimated interest rate, and the overall debt service requirements after giving effect to the new financing; (D) assisting the officials of the Issuer in fixing the final details of the Certificates, including schedules of maturities, redemption features and form of the Certificates; (E) drafting and submitting to the Issuer all proceedings and documents, including resolutions, indentures and ordinances necessary to authorize the issuance of the Certificates and all legal proceedings and documents relating to marketing and delivery of the Certificates, and supervising the adoption of said proceedings, and execution of said documents by the officials of the Issuer; (F) assisting local counsel to the Issuer or local associate counsel retained by Issuer in handling all litigation affecting the legality of the Certificates and/or the method of financing; (G) assisting the Issuer or others in various aspects of preparing the offering statement or any other disclosure document to be disseminated in connection with the sale of the Certificates; (H) assisting in presenting information to bond rating organizations, if needed; (I) arranging and supervising the delivery of the Certificates to the original purchaser thereof and, where required, the preparation and execution of trust documents safeguarding the expenditure of Certificate proceeds; (J) obtaining any occurring or ancillary legal opinions from other persons or firms to enhance the possibilities of sale of the Certificate; and (K) Preparing a complete transcript of record covering the issuance of the Certificates and furnishing the same to the purchaser(s) of the Certificates. SECTION 4. The fee for the work to be performed hereunder is contingent upon the issuance, sale and delivery of the Certificates, and shall be in accordance with the maximum fee schedule of the Attorney General of the State of Louisiana for comprehensive legal and coordinate professional work by bond attorneys and bond counsel in the issuance of revenue bonds. Bond Counsel shall pay out of his fee the following expenses: (a) Travel and communication expenses incurred by him in the handling of the Certificates; and (b) Printing and reproduction costs of all financial analysis, reports, and legal proceedings prepared by the Bond Counsel. Bond Counsel shall be reimbursed all other reasonable and necessary costs and expenses incurred in connection with the preparation and distribution of any preliminary and final Official Statements containing detailed and comprehensive financial and statistical data with respect to the Issuer (for example, costs and expenses to include the cost of collecting data, cost of preparing and assembling material, costs of printing or duplicating, postal supplies, and cost of binding copies of the transcript of proceedings). SECTION 5. It is intended that acceptance and approval of this resolution by entering upon performance by Joseph A. Delafield, Esq., of the legal services provided for herein, shall constitute this resolution a contract in accordance with the provisions hereof. SECTION 6. When the Issuer has received payment in full for the Certificates upon delivery thereof, payment of the fee and expenses is authorized to be made as herein provided. SECTION 7. The Issuer does hereby authorize and direct Bond Counsel to proceed with the preparation of all necessary and appropriate documents and to file preliminary drafts of said documents and make application with the State Bond Commission in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Commission. SECTION 8. The officers of the Issuer are hereby authorized and empowered to take any and all further action and to sign any and all documents, instruments in writing as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this resolution and to file, on behalf of the Issuer, with any governmental board of entity having jurisdiction over the Issuer’s Project, such applications or requests for approval thereof as may be required by law, including the application to the State Bond Commission for preliminary approval and authorization to proceed with development of the Project. This Resolution was declared adopted on this 4th day of September, 2001. /s/ Sheral A. LaVergne SHERAL A. LaVERGNE, President Calcasieu Parish School Board ATTEST: /s/ Jude W. Theriot JUDE W. THERIOT, Secretary * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Next, Mr. Falgout reported that Walker Louisiana Properties requested a 20-foot right-of-way easement on land adjacent to St. John Elementary School property. The company has plans to grant the use of 10 acres of land as a Little League practice field. Staff recommended a ninety-day cancellation clause be added to the easement language. Mr. Falgout moved on behalf of the committee recommending that the twenty foot right-of-way easement between Walker Louisiana Properties and Calcasieu Parish School Board on land adjacent to St. John Elementary School property be approved as presented including a ninety day cancellation clause. The motion carried unanimously. Next, Mr. Charles Duhon, Internal Auditor, presented the school audit reports for acceptance. Mr. Duhon advised the committee that the reports have been presented to and discussed with the administrative directors and school principals and all exceptions have been handled according to the School Activity Funds Principles and Procedures Manual. Mr. Falgout moved on behalf of the committee recommending that the school audit reports be approved as presented. The motion carried unanimously. Mr.Bruchhaus presented information concerning the Louisiana Qualified Zone Academy Bonds (ZZAB) Program. These bonds offer $982,368 in interest-free funds that can be used for general renovation, upgrade, or equipment/technology purchases. Staff would like to pursue the bond money for projects approved in the 2001-2002 budget including roof replacements, sewer treatment replacements and boiler/chiller replacements. Mr. Falgout moved on behalf of the committee recommending that staff be given permission to proceed with pursuing bond funds for projects through the Louisiana Qualified Zone Academy Bonds Program. The motion carried unanimously. Curriculum & Instruction Wilridge Doucet, Chairman, reported the Curriculum and Instruction Committee met on Thursday, August 23, 2001; a quorum was present. The first item of discussion was concerns regarding the school uniform policy. Vendors were present to address the difficulty of providing uniforms with belt loops and the issue of long skirts with pockets. It was reported that belts must be worn with or without belt loops, and the other concerns should be referred to the Calcasieu Parish Uniform Committee at a later date – probably in the Spring of 2002. This item was for informational purposes only. Mr. Doucet reported that the Calcasieu Parish Copyright Policy was published in 1989 and had not been updated since that time. With an explosion of technology in our schools, an update was needed. Mr. Doucet moved on behalf of the committee recommending that the Copyright Manual And Materials Selection Guide was approved as presented. The motion was carried unanimously. The next item of discussion was the Pupil Progression Plan. It was reported that the plan must receive Board approval annually, the Plan would be in a state of continual change because of accountability and Leap testing. For this reason, it was recommended that the Pupil Progression Plan be approved “as is” and that changes be made “as needed.” Mr. Doucet moved on behalf of the committee to approve the Pupil Progression Plan “as is” pending future changes. The motion carried unanimously. TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION Grant Application “Community Technology Center Program”, ($300,000) The grant application, Community Technology Center Program in the amount of $300,000 was presented for approval. The grant would be funded for one year. The grant would provide two well-defined, community technology centers, promoting guidance, education, and support to community members and students, ultimately increasing the digital inclusion among at or below poverty households. On motion by Mrs. Duplechin, seconded by Mrs. C. Duhon and unanimously carried, the grant application Community Technology Center Program for $300,000 was approved. Grant Application “Teaching American History Grant Program”, 2001-2002, The grant application, Teaching American History Grant Program in the amount of $618,762 for a total of three years was presented for approval. The grant would support programs to raise student achievement by improving teachers’ knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of American History. On motion by Mrs. Duplechin, seconded by Mr. Karr and unanimously carried, the grant application, Teaching American History Grant Program in the amount of $618,762 for a total of three years was approved. Consideration of Construction Management for Individual School Projects in District 31, North Lake Charles Mrs. C. Duhon, made a motion to award a professional service contract to Carothers Construction Company as Construction Manager for the projects “Additions and Renovations to Reynaud Middle School” and the new “Combre/Fondel Elementary School,” subject to negotiations with the staff. Ms. LaVergne turned the Chair over to the Vice Chairman, Mr. Falgout. Mr. Falgout opened the floor for general discussion. Mr. Victorian stated the proposal was prompted by the following:
Mrs. Duhon and Ms. LaVergne stated that District 31 should make the decision of who is hired for a project manager in their area. The ultimate goal is to complete projects within time limits, be cost effective and serve the citizens and students in their districts with fair representation. Mrs. Duhon spoke specifically about the problems with the Ralph Wilson Elementary school project. She stated the project was not completed before the first day of school and the campus was in disarray Mr. Andrepont posed a concern that the proposal did not go to Committee before the Board. There was discussion regarding the legal aspects of hiring Carothers Construction Company and the change of Board procedure if the Board agreed to hire the company. “Value engineering” was questioned and the problem with non-compliance with bidding process. Several Board members stated that the concept looked good, but further investigation needed to be conducted. A substitute motion was made by Mr. Armentor to issue a request for proposals for construction management services instead of negotiating a contract. Mr. Falgout recognized Sean Carothers, President, Carothers Construction Company. Mr. Carothers spoke on the credibility of his company. He stated his company has been in business since 1956 and has been successful with building or renovating approximately 45 public entities in several states. He stated they are experienced in delivery methods and tried with success. The Chair recognized the following who were in opposition of the main motion to hire Carothers Construction as construction manager for the projects “Additions and Renovations to Reynaud Middle School” and the new “Combre/Fondel Elementary School,” School District number 31.
The concerns and opposition reasons were:
The Chair recognized Derrell Cohoon, attorney, and Charles Marceaux, representative of the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors, who spoke on the legal aspects of the proposal. After much discussion the Chairman called for a vote on the substitute motion to issue a request for proposals for construction management services, including the projects: Additions and Renovations to Reynaud Middle School and the new Combre/Fondel Elementary School. The motion passed by a vote of 8 to 6. Cooperative Services Agreement on Sale of Buildings Returned to Educational Building Systems Mr. Bruchhaus, Chief Financial Officer, reported that the agreement is necessary in order for other systems to purchase buildings returned by the Calcasieu Parish School Board to Educational Building Systems. On motion by Mr. Blackwell, seconded by Mr. Doucet and unanimously carried, the following Cooperative Services Agreement on Sale of Buildings Returned to Educational Building Systems was approved. COOPERATIVE SERVICES AGREEMENT UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BETWEEN STATE OF LOUISIANA CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD PARISH OF CALCASIEU AND CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD The following agreement is hereby entered into by and between the PARISH SCHOOL BOARD, represented herein by , Superintendent, and the CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD, represented herein by Jude W. Theriot, Superintendent. WHEREAS, PARISH SCHOOL BOARD wishes to enter into a cooperative agreement with the CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD to purchase portable building(s) for their school system; THEREFORE, BE IT AGREED between the PARISH SCHOOL BOARD and the CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD, that the two bodies enter into a cooperative agreement for the purchase of portable buildings at a cost of $ each; and The PARISH SCHOOL BOARD agrees to hold the CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD harmless and indemnify it from any claim or suit by any third person for injuries or damages which may be caused by PARISH SCHOOL BOARD, its employees, or any client served under this agreement; and The PARISH SCHOOL BOARD assumes all costs associated with removal of the buildings from Calcasieu Parish School Board properties. The CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD hereby verifies that the buildings contain no asbestos. THUS DONE AND SIGNED on the dates hereinafter shown, in the parish of Calcasieu, State of Louisiana, in the presence of the undersigned, after a due reading of the whole. WITNESSES: CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD BY: /s/ Jude W. Theriot Jude W. Theriot Superintendent This day of , 200 . NOTARY PUBLIC WITNESSES: CALCASIEU PARISH SCHOOL BOARD BY: /s/ Jude W. Theriot Jude W. Theriot, Superintendent This day of , 200 . NOTARY PUBLIC BID REPORTS New Combre/Fondel Elementary School Project “Site Preparation” School District No. 31 Bond Funds, Bid No 2002-02PC On motion by Mr. J. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Andrepont and carried, the new Combre/Fondel Elementary School Project “Site Preparation” School District No. 31 Bond Funds, Bid No 2002-02PC, was removed from the agenda. Vinton Elementary School Improvements, Phase I, School District No. 26 Bond Funds, Bid No. 2002-03PC The following bids were presented for the Vinton Elementary School Improvements, Phase I, School District No. 26 Bond Funds, Bid No. 2002-03PC: Contractor Base Bid Lewing Construction $1,063,000 John D. Myers & Associates $1,017,500 On motion by Mr. J. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Andrepont and carried, Vinton Elementary School Improvements, Phase I, School District No. 26 Bond Funds, Bid No. 2002-03PC was awarded to John D. Myers and Associates in the amount of One Million Seventeen Thousand Five Hundred and no/100-----Dollars ($1,017,500.00), as the lowest qualified bidder meeting specifications. Magazines for Calcasieu Parish Libraries, General Funds, Bid No. 2002-07 The following bids were received for Magazines for Calcasieu Parish Libraries, General Funds, Bid No. 2002-07: Vendor Name Bid Price National Organization Service $50,928.17 (Des Moines, IA) W.T. Cox Subscription, Inc. $55,970.10 (Shallotte, NC) On motion by Mr. Andrepont, seconded by Mr. J. Duhon and unanimously carried, Magazines for Calcasieu Parish Libraries, General Funds, Bid No. 2002-07 was awarded to National Organization Service for the amount of Fifty Thousand Nine Hundred Twenty-Eight and 17/100-------- Dollars ($50,928.17) as the lowest qualified bidder meeting specifications. PERMISSION TO ADVERTISE Vinton Middle School Additions & Renovations, Phase I, School District No. 26 Bond Funds; Ellender Architects & Associates, LLC, Designer On motion by Mr. J. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Victorian and unanimously carried, permission to advertise for Vinton Middle School Additions and Renovations, Phase I, School District no. 26 Bond Funds; Ellender Architiects & Associates, LLC, Designer was approved. Bulk Engine Oil for the Calcasieu Parish School Board, Transportation Department, General Funds, Bid No. 2002-08 On motion by Mr. J. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Victorian and unanimously carried, permission to advertise for Bulk Engine Oil for the Calcasieu Parish School Board, Transportation Department, General Funds, Bid No. 2002-08 was approved. Computer Servers for Calcasieu Parish School Board, Data Processing Department, General Funds, Bid No. 2002-10 On motion by Mr. J. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Victorian and unanimously carried, permission to advertise for Computer Servers for Calcasieu Parish School Board, Data Processing Department, General Funds, Bid No. 2002-10 was approved. CORRESPONDENCE Change Order No.1 for the Project “Additions and Renovations to Pearl Watson Elementary School,” Project No. 2007-24P, School District No. 31 Bond Funds On motion by Mr. Victorian, seconded by Mr. Falgout and unanimously carried, Change Order No.1 for the Project Additions and Renovations to Pearl Watson Elementary School, Project No. 2007-24P, School District No. 31 Bond Funds, for an increase of $66, 664.94 and an extension of seven days; C. Gayle Zembower, Architect, Inc., Designer; Alfred Palma, Inc., Contractor Resolution Authorizing the Calcasieu Parish School Board President to Sign a Document Approving a Lease between the North American Land Company, Inc., and Calcasieu Parish School Board On motion by Mrs. Duplechin, seconded by Mr. Karr and unanimously carried, the following Resolution Authorizing the Calcasieu Parish School Board President to Sign a Document Approving a Lease between the North American Land Company, Inc., and Calcasieu Parish School Board was approved: RESOLUTION A Resolution authorizing the President to enter into a Lease between the North American Land Company, Inc., and the Calcasieu Parish School Board for use of the following described property: That certain tract or parcel of land situated in the Southeast Quarter of Section 3, Township 11 South, Range 6 West, Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, being more particularly described as follows, to-wit: Commencing at the Southeast corner of Section 3, Township 11 South, Range 6 West, Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana; thence South 89º 51’ 30” West, along the South line of said Section 3, for a distance of 660.0 feet; thence North 00° 15’00” West, parallel with the East line of said Section 3, for a distance of 1099.10 feet to an existing 1½” rebar, the point of beginning of herein described tract: Thence South 89º 40’30” West, for a distance of 478.90 feet to an existing ½ ”rod; thence North 04º 05’00” East, for a distance of 681.32 feet to a set 5/8” bar; thence South 89º 51’48” West, for a distance of 832.58 feet to a set 5/8” bar; thence North 00º 15’00” West, parallel with the aforesaid East line of Section 3, for a distance of 771.00 feet to a set 5/8” bar; thence North 89º 51’48” East, for a distance of 1260.00 feet to a set 5/8” bar; thence South 00º 15’00” East, for a distance of 1448.90 feet to the point of beginning, herein described tract containing 29.362 acres, more or less, and subject to any right of ways, easements and/or servitudes of record or by use. BE IT RESOLVED by the Calcasieu Parish School Board in regular session convened that: Section 1: The President of the Calcasieu Parish School Board is hereby authorized to enter into a Lease between the North American Land Company, Inc., and the Calcasieu parish School Board for use of the above-described property. Section 2: The President is further authorized to include any provisions in any agreement which she deems necessary to protect the interests of the Calcasieu Parish School Board. PASSED AND ADOPTED at Lake Charles, Louisiana, on this ______ the day of ___________, 2001. WITNESSES: BY: _________________________ /s/Sheral A. LaVergne _________________________ Sheral A. LaVergne,
President Beneficial Occupancy for the Project “Chill Replacement at Western Heights and Westwood Elementary,” School District No. 23 Project No. 9917-E1 On motion by Mr. Doucet , seconded by Mr. Blackwell and unanimously carried, Beneficial Occupancy for the Project Chiller Replacement at Western Heights and Westwood Elementary, School District No. 23 Project No. 9917-E1; King Architects, Inc., Architects; Calcasieu Mechanical, Contractor was approved. Change Order No. 3 for the Project “Miscellaneous Improvements to Westlake High School,” Project No 9917-A3, School District No. 23 Bond Funds On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Blackwell and unanimously carried, Change Order No. 3 for the Project Miscellaneous Improvements to Westlake High School, Project No 9917-A3, School District No. 23 Bond Funds, for an increase of $14,780.00; King Architects, Inc., Designer; Miller and Associates, Contractor was approved. Change Order No. 2 for the Project “Phase IV Maplewood Middle School Roof Replacement,” Project No. 2001-19PC, School District No. 23 Bond Funds On motion by Mr. Blackwell, seconded by Mr. Fontenot and unanimously carried, Change Order No. 2 for the Project Phase IV Maplewood Middle School Roof Replacement, Project No. 2001-19PC, School District No. 23 Bond Funds, for an increase of $1,252.20; H. Curtis Vincent and Steven D. Shows, Architects; Ferguson Roofing Company, Inc., Contractor was approved. Change Order No. 3 for the Project “Phase I, J. D. Clifton Elementary School, Additions and Renovations,” Project No. EA 2000-7 On motion by Mr. Andrepont, seconded by Mr. J. Duhon and unanimously carried, Change Order No. 3 for the Project “Phase I, J. D. Clifton Elementary School, Additions and Renovations,” Project No. EA 2000-7, School District No. 31 Bond Funds, for an increase of $15,113.40 and an extension of sixty-two (62) days; Ellender Architects and Associates, LLC, Designer; Bessette Development Corporation, Contractor was approved Recommendation of Acceptance for the Project “Phase III ,Iowa Area Schools, Iowa High School Stadium Bleacher Renovations and Additions,” On motion by Mr. Armentor, seconded by Mr. J. Duhon and unanimously carried, Recommendation of Acceptance for the Project “Phase III ,Iowa Area Schools, Iowa High School Stadium Bleacher Renovations and Additions,” Moss Architects, Designer; Miller and Associates Development Company, Inc., Contractor was approved. Change Order No. 4 for the Project “Additions and Renovations to Maplewood Middle School, Phase III,” School District No. 23 Bond Funds, Project No. 2001-07 PC, On motion by Mr. Blackwell, seconded by Mr. Doucet and unanimously carried, Change Order No. 4 for the Project “Additions and Renovations to Maplewood Middle School, Phase III,” School District No. 23 Bond Funds, Project No. 2001-07 PC, for an increase of $7,028.33 and an extension of sixty (60) days; H. Curtis Vincent and Steven D. Shows, Architects; Conner/Manceaux GC, Inc., Contractor was approved. Change Order No. 2 for the Project “Additions and Renovations to Pearl Watson Elementary School,” School District No. 31 Bond Funds, Project No. 2007-24P On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Fontenot and unanimously carried, Change Order No. 2 for the Project “Additions and Renovations to Pearl Watson Elementary School,” School District No. 31 Bond Funds, Project No. 2007-24P, for an increase of $9,082.85 and an extension of five (5) days; C. Gayle Zembower, Architect, Inc., Designer; Alfred Palma, Inc., Contractor was approved. Resolution Requesting Employment of Special Counsel in Connection with Sales Tax Litigation After discussion, the following resolution was introduced and, pursuant to motion made by Mr. Doucet and seconded by Mr. Andrepont, was adopted by the following vote: YEAS: Mr. Andrepont, Mr. Armentor, Mr. Blackwell, Mr. Doucet, Mrs. Duhon, Mr. Duhon, Ms. Duplechin, Mr. Falgout, Mr. Fontenot, Mr. Karr, Ms. LaVergne, Mr. Pitre, Mr. Robert, Mr. Tarver and Mr. Victorian NAYS: None RESOLUTION A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALES TAX DISTRICT NO. THREE OF CALCASIEU PARISH, LOUISIANA, TO PROCEED WITH A VALIDATION PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO A COOPERATIVE ENDEAVOR AND FINANCING AGREEMENT AMONG THE DISTRICT, THE CITY OF LAKE CHARLES, AND WAL-MART STORES, INC., AND SUBSEQUENT TO APPROVAL, AUTHORIZING JUDE W. THERIOT, SUPERINTENDENT, TO EXECUTE THE COOPERATIVE ENDEAVOR AND FINANCING AGREEMENT ON BEHALF OF THE DISTRICT. WHEREAS, Sales Tax District No. Three of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana (the “DISTRICT”) on November 30, 2000, issued, sold and delivered $14,770,000 of its Public School Improvement Sales Tax Revenue Bonds, ST Series 2000 (the “BONDS”), which are secured by and payable from the avails and proceeds of a 1-1/2% sales and use tax approved by the voters of the DISTRICT on July 15, 2000; and WHEREAS, the BONDS are secured by and payable from sales tax collections within the DISTRICT, a significant portion of which are generated and collected by sales of merchandise within the existing Wal-Mart facility within the DISTRICT; and WHEREAS, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (the “COMPANY”) proposes to acquire and construct a new Wal-Mart Super Center within the City of Lake Charles, Louisiana (the “CITY”) which will thereafter result in the closure of the existing Wal-Mart facility within the DISTRICT, and the consequent loss of Tax revenues to the DISTRICT; and WHEREAS, the COMPANY, the CITY and the DISTRICT propose to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Financing Agreement dated as of October 1, 2001 (the “Agreement”) to replace for the DISTRICT the loss of sales tax revenues occasioned by the closure of the existing Wal-Mart store within the DISTRICT; and WHEREAS, La. R.S. 13:5121, et seq., provides a method for determining the validity of any action taken which provides a new or different source of payment or security for outstanding bonds, including the Agreement; and WHEREAS, the DISTRICT desires to authorize the filing of such a validation proceeding in connection with the Agreement, and upon conclusion of such proceeding, to authorize execution and delivery of the Agreement; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Parish School Board, governing authority of Sales Tax District No. Three of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, as follows: SECTION 1. Joseph A. Delafield, Attorney at Law, is hereby authorized to proceed with a validation proceeding on behalf of the Sales Tax District No. Three of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, pursuant to the provisions of La. R.S. 13:5121, et seq., in connection with that certain Cooperative Endeavor and Financing Agreement by and among the District, the City of Lake Charles, and Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., a copy of which is annexed hereto as Exhibit A. SECTION 2. The School Board, governing authority of Sales Tax District No. Three of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, upon completion and approval of validation proceedings, does hereby authorize execution and delivery of the Cooperative Endeavor and Financing Agreement dated as of October 1, 2001, in substantially the form as shown on Exhibit A. SECTION 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this 4th day of September 2001. /s/ Sheral A. LaVergne SHERAL A. LAVERGNE, President ATTEST: /s/ Jude W. Theriot JUDE W. THERIOT, Secretary SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT Board Meeting Dates The following dates were suggested for the Board meetings: October 2, 2001 and October 16, 2001 November 13, 2001 December 4, 2001 On motion by Mr. Falgout, seconded by Mr. Doucet and carried, the board meeting dates for October, November and December were approved as presented. Mr. Theriot reported on the following: KPLC School Supply Drive With the cooperation of KPLC, Wal-Mart, Women and Children’s Hospital, and the community the school supply drive was a success. Many elementary students received needed supplies to begin the school year. In addition to the community participation and generous donations, Wal-Mart donated $1,000.00 in supplies and Women and Children’s Hospital donated $365.00 for the purchase of supplies. Also, employees from KPLC spent many hours promoting this important activity. When the business community and the citizens of Calcasieu Parish join hands to help students in our schools, the results are truly exciting. Gifted Program Nine Calcasieu educators from Molo Middle School and Washington/Marion High School attended Zavier University to study the implementation of vertical learning to prepare students for Advanced Placement English classes. This was funded through a grant from the College Board that administers the Advanced Placement program. Our team of nine was one of only ten teams from throughout the nation chosen to participate. Participants are enthusiastic and will implement the strategies learned. Attendees included: Amy Reynolds, Molo Middle School Teacher Eunice Dent, Molo Middle School Teacher Johnny Mouton, Molo Middle School Principal Dinah Robinson, Washington/Marion High School Teacher Patricia Clarence, Washington/Marion High School Teacher Amelia Fontenot, Washington/Marion High School Teacher Linda Becton, Washington/Marion Teacher Madelyn Miller, Washington/Marion Principal Dorethan Weston, Washington/Marion Counselor Louisiana Department of Education Report Louisiana’s public school 4th graders made the largest gains in the country on a national math test, and its 8th graders’ improvement on the test outpaced the nation in 2000. The results from the National Assessment of Educations Progress (NAEP), comparing 1996 to 2000, mark the first time Louisiana students have been identified by national testing officials as making “significant” improvement in math. The latest NAEP Results show:
State education officials embraced the results as evidence that Louisiana’s three-year-old reforms are taking root. “This is hard evidence that our reforms are working. These results validate everything we’ve been doing in literacy, accountability and testing. We’re nowhere near where we want to be. But we are extremely proud of our progress, especially at the 4th grade level,” State Superintendent of Education Cecil J. Picard said. “We expected more improvement at the 4th grade level, and we got it, because these students have had the benefit of our K-3 Reading and Math initiative. That program is definitely working,” Picard said. The 2000 NAEP math scores mark the 2nd time Louisiana has been identified as making significant gains in NAEP. The first time was in 1998, when the NCES released reading scores and cited Louisiana as one of six states making significant improvement. “We’ve known for some time that to move off of the bottom, we were going to have to do something dramatic. Obviously, we were right. Our reforms have had a profound effect on the level of learning in Louisiana,” State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education President Paul Pastorek said. The 2000 NAEP math results also show:
“These results are wonderful and show our reforms are working,” BESE member Leslie Jacobs said. “They continue a trend seen in our recent 4th grade NAEP reading results, where we were in the top six states in growth. It’s nice to be at the top of the list in growth in student achievement.” NAEP test representative samples of students at the state and national level. There is no state level data available for non-public schools or for individual public schools and school districts. Charts are available on the state website at
www.louisianaschools.net ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REQUESTS Mr. Pitre expressed a concern regarding the removal of a teacher from a classroom upon being summoned by an authority outside the school system. He used the example of a juvenile officer questioning a teacher about a student. He asked if staff could investigate the possibility of not allowing this to occur. Mr. Theriot stated that law enforcement authority is not under the Calcasieu Parish School system’s jurisdiction. Mr. Fontenot requested a letter of condolence be sent to the family of Ruth Durio. Mrs. Durio was a counselor at Moss Bluff Middle School. Mr. Karr requested a letter of condolence be sent to the family of Andrew Tyler who was fatally hit by a vehicle while riding his bicycle. Mrs. Duplechin requested that maintenance investigate the mold and mildew problem in the new pods at Oak Park Middle School. She also reported that there has been a malfunction concerning several computer connections. She requested that this need to be investigated so new computers would not be destroyed. Mr. Doucet announced that the Louisiana Association conducts a poster and essay contest on Louisiana. The contest is offered to students from first through twelfth grades. He asked that the principals and teachers disseminate the information to all students and encourage student involvement. Mr. Armentor asked if a Board member makes an appointment to a commission or committee outside the school board system, is the Board responsible? Mr. Theriot reported that if the Board member makes an appointment, it is not a formal Board appointed position. Mr. Tarver requested a letter of condolence be sent to Mrs. Betty Gobeil, a Spanish teacher at Sulphur High School, on the loss of her father. Mr. Doucet requested the purchase of new chairs for the Board members for the Boardroom. He requested that the item be placed on the next Budget/Fiscal Management Committee meeting. Mr. Duhon requested an appreciation letter be sent to Ralph Lewing and his company’s employees who diligently worked on the Vinton High School stadium before the first football game. He also requested a thank you letter to be sent to the Calcasieu Parish Maintenance Department for their assistance with the project. Mr. Duhon reported his retirement with U.S. Unwired is effective Friday, September 7, 2001. Mr. Andrepont requested a review of the coaches supplement salaries. He also requested that the issue of school supplies needs to be addressed. He stated that so many families are burdened with the excessive list and cost of school supplies. Mr. Miller reported the next principal’s meeting that will address this issue would not be scheduled until next spring. Mr. Andrepont stated there is continued confusion regarding the uniform policy. He also expressed a concern from several elementary teachers regarding taking roll electronically. Mr. Falgout requested letters of condolence to the family of Dr. H. B. Hewett, a past Board member and to Wayne Richard, payroll director, on the loss of his brother. Mr. Victorian expressed his displeasure with the Board’s action that will ultimately cause time delays concerning the projects “Reynaud Middle School” and the new “Combre/Fondel Elementary School.” On motion by Mr. Andrepont, seconded by Mr. Blackwell the Board approved the reconsideration of the earlier action issuing requests for proposals for construction management services including projects at Reynaud Middle School and the new Combre/Fondel Elementary School. On motion by Mr. Anderpont, seconded by Mr. Blackwell and approved, the projects at Reynaud Middle School and the new Combre/Fondel Elementary school were removed as specific projects to be listed in the request for proposals for construction management services. On motion by Mr. Victorian, seconded by Mrs. Duhon and approved unanimously, the issue of the new “Combre/Fondel Elementary School Site Preparation,” bid number 2002-02PC, School District No. 31 Bond Funds, Moss Architects, Designer was added to the agenda as follows: On motion by Mr. Victorian, seconded by Mrs. Duhon and carried, the bid for the new Combre/Fondel Elementary School Project “Site Preparation” was awarded to Civil Construction Company (Base Bid) in the amount of One Hundred Ninety Two thousand Eight Hundred Forty Four and no/100---------Dollars ($192,844.00), as the lowest qualified bidder meeting specifications. Contractor Base Bid Bessesste Development $220,000 Civil Construction Company $192,844 C & C Fontenot Construction $203,614 On motion by Mrs. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Victorian and carried, permission was granted to proceed with advertisement of “Additions and Renovations to Reynaud Middle School.” On motion by Mr. Victorian, seconded by Mrs. Duhon and carried, permission was granted to proceed with advertisement of the “New Combre/Fondel Elementary School.” Mrs. Duhon requested condolence letters be sent to the Babineaux family members on the loss of their grandfather and father. Mrs. Duhon announced that a “walk through” inspection of Ralph Wilson was scheduled to be conducted on Wednesday, September 5, 2001, at 10:00 a.m. She encouraged all Board members to attend. She stated that the contract finish date had expired and was displeased with the project delay. SCHEDULE STANDING COMMITTEE MEETINGS EXECUTIVE SESSION On motion by Mr. J. Duhon, seconded by Mr. Andrepont and unanimously carried, the Board went into Executive Session at 10:00 p.m. to discuss personnel and litigation matters. The Board resumed regular open session at 10:15 p.m. TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION Bond Validation Litigation On motion by Mr. Fontenot, seconded by Mr. Falgout and unanimously carried, the authorization was granted to hire legal counsel, Jay Delafield, to file a lawsuit related to bond validation concerning the new Wal-mart as a source of debt service revenue for Sales Tax District No. 3. School Track Litigation Mr. Karr made a motion authorizing the placing of Southwest Recreational Industries, Inc., and the General Contractor on notice of inferior tracks at Washington/Marion and DeQuincy High Schools; placing Southwest Recreational Industries, Inc., on notice of concerns and issues related to track refurbishments still under the five year warranty. The motion was seconded by Mr. Fontenot and unanimously carried. Personnel On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Victorian and unanimously carried, the following personnel changes were approved as recommended by the Superintendent: Resignations Jason Gunter, Teacher, Maplewood Middle School, effective May 31, 2001; Glenda Broussard, Teacher Aide, Lake Charles Boston High School, effective August 13, 2001; Felisha Nunez, Teacher, S.J. Welsh Middle School, effective August 15, 2001; Tricia Sonnier, Cafeteria Technician, W.W. Lewis Middle School, effective May 31, 2001; Jean-Jacques Bellemare, Teacher, Oak Park Middle School, effective August 15, 2001; Mark Perow, Teacher/Coach, Resignation of his coaching duties only effective August 10, 2001; Phyllis Williams, Teacher, Reynaud Middle School, effective August 7, 2001; Janet Fruge, Cafeteria Manager, Dolby Elementary School, effective May 31, 2001; Margaret Geyen, Lab Manager, J.F. Kennedy Elementary School, effective July 18, 2001; Amy McIntosh, Teacher, Brentwood Elementary School, effective August 15, 2001; Thomas Riggins, Janitor, Vinton Middle School, effective August 31, 2001; Tonia Henry, Teacher, T.H. Watkins Elementary School, effective August 22, 2001; Patsy Doucet, Cafeteria Technician, Reynaud Middle School, effective May 31, 2001; Debbie Carbone, Cafeteria Technician, Gillis Elementary School, effective August 22, 2001; Belinda Cox, Teacher, DeQuincy Elementary School, effective August 27, 2001; Jennifer Rains, Teacher, DeQuincy Elementary School, effective May 31, 2001; Paul Tassin, Band Director, F.K. White Middle/LaGrange High Schools, effective August 29, 2001. Retirement Notifications Sarah L. Shamburger, Teacher, Henry Heights Elementary School, effective May 31, 2001; Carol Frank, Teacher, Oak Park Elementary School, effective August 8, 2001. Maternity Leave Bethany Meaders, Teacher, Bell City High School, beginning October 9, 2001, until November 28, 2001; Michelle Hagerich, Teacher, Maplewood Middle School, beginning September 24, 2001, until November 26, 2001; Michelle Farque, Teacher, Gillis Elementary School, beginning February 6, 2002, until March 20, 2002; Kim Duplechin, Teacher, Fairview Elementary School, beginning November 30, 2001 until January 14, 2002; Monica Darce, Teacher, Pear Watson Elementary School, beginning December 3, 2001 until January 14, 2002. Leave Without Pay Miracle King, Cafeteria Manager, Ralph Wilson Elementary School, fall semester of the 2001-2002 school session; Kyla Zaunbrecher, Teacher Aide, M.J. Kaufman Elementary School, beginning October 1, 2001 until May 31, 2002; Betty Coleman, Cafeteria Technician, Lake Charles Boston High School, beginning August 22, 2001 until October 12, 2001, John Parker, Supervisor, Maintenance Department, beginning September 3, 2001 until September 28, 2001; Paula Haggart, Vision Special Ed Aide, Special Services Department, beginning October 1, 2001 until May 31, 2001; Lisa Guidry, Bus Driver, Vinton Middle School, 2001-2002 school session. Professional Development Patricia Willis, Teacher, E.K. Key Elementary School, spring semester of the 2001-2002 school session. Administrative Assignments Request permission to eliminate the normal advertisement period and assign the Acting Principal and Acting Assistant Principal for DeQuincy Elementary School due to the emergency medical leave taken by Cynthia Creel, Principal. Staff recommends that the assignments become effective immediately. On motion by Mr. Karr, seconded by Mr. Falgout and unanimously carried, the request permission to eliminate the normal advertisement period and assign the Acting Principal and Acting Assistant Principal for DeQuincy Elementary School due to the emergency medical leave taken by Cynthia Creel, Principal. Staff recommends that the assignments become effective immediately. On motion by Mr. Karr, seconded by Mr. Falgout and unanimously carried, the recommendation of assigning Mr. Claude LeCompte for the position of acting principal for DeQuincy Elementary School was approved. Meeting Adjourned On motion by Mr. Doucet, seconded by Mr. Andrepont and unanimously carried, the meeting was adjourned at 10:20 p.m. /s/Jude W. Theriot /s/Sheral A. LaVergne Jude W. Theriot, Secretary Sheral A. LaVergne, President ______________________
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Last modified on Wednesday August 15, 2007 |