CSD Board reviews building conditions, discusses member appointments

LEAVENWORTH – Cascade School Board reviewed the results of the annual building conditions study and discussed member appointments at its bi-monthly meeting on Feb. 12. 

The Board appointed Mike Worden as its legislative representative to fill the vacancy created by Zachary Miller’s recent resignation. No appointment has yet been made for the Upper Valley Park & Recreation Service Area (PRSA) Liaison. 

Teresa Disher, CSD Operations and Facilities Director, presented the results of the annual asset preservation program, in which Disher examines both old and new school buildings and scores them based on the improvements needed.  CSD buildings were in overall good condition, with no expensive improvements needing immediate attention. 

“I didn't hear of any major expenditures the rest of this fiscal year,” said Worden, after the presentation.

Peshastin-Dryden Elementary, which was modernized in 2019, received 98 points out of 100. The school had no required improvements, but the delaminating surface around the sinks needed to be monitored.

Alpine Lakes Elementary, which was built in 2019, scored a 95.95. Disher said the building had normal wear and tear for 5 years of operation, but there is roof leakage during heavy rain and snow. Disher is hoping to make the necessary repairs this spring. 

“Other than that, it's a really great building. It's really sound,” said Disher.

Beaver Valley Elementary received 87.86 points for its main building, built in 2001. Points were lower mainly due to the heating system, which has been requiring more frequent service repairs on the old heat pumps. The building is also due for new movable furnishings, such as tables and chairs. Disher assigned a similar rating to the covered play area, which will eventually need its plywood exterior replaced. 

Icicle River Middle School received 87.72 points, but is in good condition for its age, according to Disher.

“This is my favorite building, I think, because of its age. It's 33 years old…Comparatively speaking to all the other buildings, this was a really well-built building,” said Disher.

Disher said an eye should be kept on the roof as well as the interior partitions due to the age of the materials. However, neither had major issues and showed no signs of needing immediate replacement.

The main building of Cascade High School received 98 points, after doing major repairs on its HVAC recently. Disher said the CHS shop received a 91, and could benefit from more lighting, electrical panel replacement, and an air compressor. 

The district makes these reports annually, but receives an official report from a certified assessor every sixth year. Alpine Lakes and Cascade are slated for a certified assessment in 2025.

The Board will meet again on Feb. 26, which will include a budget update. 

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media