District 225 energy improvements result in cost savings

As part of its initiatives for 2012-13, District 225 implemented recommendations from grant-funded retro-commissioning studies to help reduce overall energy consumption. These improvements are expected to save the district more than $88,000 annually.

"While the retro-commissioning reports cited our routine maintenance as some of the best they've seen, they also produced a number of simple recommendations to further enhance our efficiency," said Superintendent Dr. Mike Riggle. "By reducing energy consumption, we save money and help improve the environment."

At Glenbrook North, eight recommended actions have either been completed or are in process and will be completed within the next two months. The total cost to implement these measures is $31,300, with an annual energy cost savings estimated at $69,515. Numerous cost-saving actions will be implemented, with many centering on the pool area of the school.

At Glenbrook South, implementation is underway on four recommended actions. The total cost is $10,000 with an annual cost savings estimated at $19,098. Cost-saving actions at GBS focus on air handling unit operations and resetting various temperature set points.

The initial study was conducted in spring 2012, and was funded by a $50,000 grant for each school.

Board reviews summer construction projects

The Board of Education reviewed recommendations from the administration for the awarding of bids for various construction projects slated for the summer of 2013. The bid results were first discussed at the Board Facilities Committee Meeting on February 27.

The total cost of the summer construction project is $2,468,700 and includes a new turf field at Glenbrook North.

The bid process had a higher turnout then usual. Overall, the recommended bids were 3.57 percent ($101,26) more than budgeted. This is largely due to expanding the physical maintenance structure at Glenbrook South.

Projects at Glenbrook North include: new turf and track; main gym bleacher replacement, painting and floor refinishing; and track and football fencing. The turf project will also result in expanded water detention, in conjunction with the Village of Northbrook, that will benefit residents on the west side of campus.

Projects at Glenbrook South include: maintenance area expansion; main gym and auditorium lighting retrofit; improved fire alarm system; concrete for potential lane configuration onto Pfingsten; and football fencing.

The Board is expected to vote on these bids at its next regular scheduled meeting on Monday, March 18.