USD 443 proposes design work for Soule basement conversion and office remodel

What happened

USD 443 is considering architectural and engineering work for converting Soule Elementary’s basement into a district distribution facility and remodeling the district office’s upstairs conference area. The proposed design-and-bid-document contract with GMCN is $111,400; both renovations remain in planning, and construction has not yet been approved in this record.

Why it matters to families

The proposal would repurpose space at Soule Elementary and remodel the district office, with the district citing City and Fire Code and safety considerations; it is a planning authorization rather than approval of construction.

The evidence

The September 28 agenda item describes the Soule basement conversion to a district distribution facility and conference-room changes (a permanent west wall, updated drop-down dividers, and other interior modifications). It says the projects are still in planning, cites City and Fire Code and safety matters, and recommends $98,900 for Soule design services plus $12,500 for the district office, totaling $111,400 from Capital Outlay. The agenda identifies the matter as an action item, so approval is not established here.

The source