Westside School Board Approves Van Horn Construction Contract For Elementary Project

by Stephanie Baker

 

In its regular meeting on Monday, Dec. 23, the Westside School Board unanimously approved a contract with Van Horn Construction for the elementary addition project.

Superintendent Brad Kent presented the contract for approval, noting the company came highly recommended by other local school districts and has a reputation of providing quality construction work while remaining budget-conscious.

Chad Weisler and Dale Brown of Van Horn Construction answered questions from Board members prior to the vote. The representatives explained the project is expected to take 18 months with a groundbreaking this summer and work ongoing throughout the 2025-26 school year. Van Horn will immediately begin obtaining subcontracts and purchasing orders to prepare for the project.

The representatives discussed safety items, including background checks for all workers on site, with workers wearing logos and fluorescent gear to enhance safety. They also informed the Board of their process to check for completion before authorizing payments to contractors, protecting the district financially throughout the build, also stating their intent to regularly attend Board meeting to present updates on the project.

They also explained the purpose of a $250,000 contingency built in to the project’s budget was not for expected mistakes, but to allow the district to add small items to the build as needs or wants arise.

Upon the signing of the contract, the Van Horn representatives said signage would go up on the campus, signaling to the community that progress is under way on the long-awaited project.

For the full story see the Jan. 8 edition of The Graphic, found online and in businesses throughout Johnson and Franklin counties.