Marshalltown Schools Director of Buildings and Grounds Chuck Springer will soon have new equipment to help with day-to-day tasks around school property.

“I come before the board because we are looking at purchasing a tractor,” he said.

He said his department recently went out for bids on a utility tractor and got two responses, both from local businesses. Van Wall Equipment was awarded the bid for the new John Deere utility tractor in the amount of $34,998.

Springer said the vehicle will be used for a variety of purposes, including moving snow, dirt and playground mulch, as well as reconditioning athletic fields.

The tractor will replace the 1994 pickup truck buildings and grounds staff currently use for utility purposes. That vehicle has recorded 180,000 miles and has a bad frame, Springer said.

“It would replace this pickup that I would like to take out of service,” he said.

Other items from Monday’s board meeting:

The board did not take action on an agenda item calling for approval of the district’s early retirement incentive program. Several board members, including Mike Miller and Ben Fletcher, said they want more information on exactly how much the district could save by renewing the program. It is set to be on the Nov. 19 board meeting agenda.

Rogers Elementary staff members gave an update on the building, including how teachers take leadership roles and research best practices for helping students succeed.

Student school board representatives presented on several athletic accomplishments by Marshalltown High School student-athletes, including in cross country and swimming. They also recapped last week’s MHS Trunk-or-Treat event.

The next Marshalltown School Board meeting is set for 5 p.m. Nov. 19 at the Central Administration Office, 1002 S. Third Ave.

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Contact Adam Sodders at (641) 753-6611 or asodders@timesrepublican.com