The Zachary Community School Board met Dec. 8 and voted to earmark $4 million of its general fund balance for potential construction projects that cannot come from selling any of the $40 million in bonds approved last November.

That money has already been allocated to projects scheduled or in progress, said Gordon Robertson, financial director for the school district. Robertson said the board could choose to increase its reserve funds from $1 to $5 million.

One of the new projects on the drawing board is a roof replacement at Copper Mill Elementary. The ZCSB voted to hire independent architect Shawn Johnson who will make the roof repairs.

"The fix could be completed in about 3-4 weeks," said Johnson. "But the number one problem is assessment. Does the sheeting need to be replaced? Is the attic exposed? I won't know until I can get in there to see."

It was estimated the cost of the roof repairs could total about $600,000.

Other board agenda items discussed included:

YMCA

The board discussed its cooperative endeavor agreement with the new YMCA facility being built in Americana. Under the proposed agreement, the Zachary school district would invest $200,000 toward construction costs in exchange for the use of the new facility's swimming pool and tennis courts.

Board members expressed concern over the unknowns - that no other costs would arise for five years and from there, YMCA officials would determine what ZCSB's cost would be. "We have a problem with the unknowns," said Scott Devillier, director of operations. "The agreement should be that YMCA can continue using our gym and track lanes while we use their swimming and tennis facilities, then it's an even swap."

Other board members also expressed their worries. "It's the "what if's" that are a stickler," said Sharon Samuel, board president.

Devillier said the board should consider its wishes and to make a decision at a future meeting.

TRAINING

Each school board member's 2011 training hours were reported at the meeting. Kenneth Mackie earned the most with 38.5 hours. Members earn credits in additional workshop, ethics, school system and convention training hours.

RECOGNITIONS

The board recognized Calyn Knight for her Veterans Day photograph; Brenton Hall for winning the district's Christmas Card contest; five Northwestern Elementary science teachers for their presentation on energy; Northwestern Middle's 6th-grade softball team and its coaches for winning the district championship; and district employee Shelia Harrell for going Beyond the Call of Duty. All received certificates at the meeting.