Belle Plaine, Iowa

January 22, 2025

A special board meeting of the Belle Plaine Community School District Board of Education was held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in the board room at Longfellow Elementary, Belle Plaine. 

Members Present: Val Coffman, Rima Johnson, Tylar Gallagher, Andy Neuhaus

Members Absent: Alicia Jacobi

Administration Present: Chad Straight

Board Secretary Absent: Stacey Kolars  

Visitors Present: Interested Patrons

Press Representative: None

The meeting was called to order by President Coffman at 6:30 p.m.

AGENDA

Motion Gallagher, second Neuhaus to approve the agenda. All voted, “aye.” Motion carried.

DELEGATIONS-There were no delegations

COMMUNICATIONS-Condolences to the family of Jack Mann, retired teacher.

BUSINESS ITEMS

1. Presentation on Vape Sensors, etc. by Tri-City Electric-Representatives from Tri-City Electric were present to give the board information regarding the new intercom system key highlights, and vape sensor add-ons.  These sensors integrate with our existing set up and the district may continue to build upon and add new features, if needed/wanted.  No action was taken on this item.

2. Action/Discussion on Naming an Architectural Company –There was motion by Johnson, second by Gallagher to name OPN Architects to work with the district on its potential bond issue for a new gymnasium and cafeteria project.  All voted, “aye.” Motion carried.

3.  Action/Discussion on Construction Manager- After discussion regarding the use of a construction manager, there was motion by Neuhaus, second by Gallagher to not use these services for the upcoming potential bond issue.  All voted, “aye.” Motion carried.

4.  Action/Discussion on Early Retirement Offering- Discussion took place on offering an early retirement package for the 2024-2025 year.  After this discussion, there was motion by Neuhaus, second by Gallagher to approve an early retirement offering to those eligible employees meeting the requirement of being 55 years of age or older:  with 15 years of experience in the district-$20,000; with 20 years of experience in the district-$30,000.  All voted, “aye.” Motion carried.

There was motion by Gallagher, second by Neuhaus to adjourn the meeting. All voted, “aye.” Motion carried.

Valerie Coffman, Board President
Stacey Kolars, Board Secretary