HAMLET — Current progress of the new L.J. Bell Elementary School project was on the agenda of the Richmond County Board of Education's June 9 meeting.
Officials of Bordeaux Construction Company of Morrisville were on hand to brief board members and answer questions about the project.
According to original plans, renovating Bell's current auditorium, and adding a lobby/entrance, would cost $1.723 million.
At its May 12 meeting, however, the board voted to replace the auditorium with four new classrooms — deemed necessary due to potential closure of the West Rockingham Elementary facility — at a cost of almost $2.5 million.
Plans also call for expansion of Bell's gymnasium to facilitate construction of a stage. Seats would be configured, as needed, to sports or stage production requirements.
Bordeaux officials noted that although the overall project is about a month behind schedule, demolition of the current L.J. Bell building is anticipated to begin this fall. Construction of the new facility is projected to commence in spring, 2027. The target date for completion is August, 2028.
The district was awarded a $42 million grant late last year for construction of a new school.
Local schools construction coordinator Steven King noted that the new Bell facility would include individual heating and air units for each classroom. This would mitigate loss of classroom use due to HVAC issues.
Discussion ensued about the possibility of more funding for the project vis-a-vis a federal tax credit. An application process is required, however, along with involvement of the county's Board of Commissioners. Approval and funds would not be available before early 2027.
In other action, King reported that renovations of Kate Finley Auditorium at Rockingham Middle School have begun, with seats having been removed and painting underway. Carpeting and installation of new seats will follow in the coming weeks. King noted that a partial roofing project at Richmond Senior High is now complete.
On a motion, the board voted to declare the James Building as surplus. Plans are to offer the site to the county; otherwise, it would be opened to public bids.
Vendors for county schools nutrition programs were approved for 2026-27, and one quirky aspect was noted. While whole milk may be served at lunch in county schools, state guidelines direct that whole milk may not be served at breakfast in the schools.
