Hillsboro R-3 school officials recently agreed to spend $8.7 million to replace the heating ventilation and air conditioning system at Hillsboro High School.
The current HVAC system is more than 25 years old and was installed in the high school when it was constructed in 1999.
“We’ve stretched the old system as far as it could go, and now it’s time to move forward with a solution that saves money, improves comfort and contributes to a stronger future for the district,” Superintendent Jon Isaacson said. “This project is more than just replacing equipment – it’s a result of strategic planning and careful financial management – balancing energy savings, low-interest financing and local investment to provide long-term value for our community.”
School board members voted 6-0 Sept. 25 to award the contract to Schneider Electric Buildings America Inc. to engineer and complete the project, which will see the replacement of nearly all mechanical systems in the high school, including 73 water source heat pumps, two boilers, two fluid coolers, 35 exhaust fans, 19 rooftop units, as well as systemwide building automation upgrades for ventilation, airflow and compliance.
The HVAC work is expected to begin within the coming weeks and is expected to be completed before the next school year begins in August 2026, according to district officials.
Finances
The district plans to cover a $2.5 million down payment for the project with money from its capital fund.
The district also received a $1.6 million energy loan through the Missouri Department of Resources at a 2.5 percent interest rate, as well as a traditional loan for approximately $4.5 million from Bank of America at a 3.9 percent interest rate.
The district also earned $60,000 in utility rebates through energy efficiency.
“The district has been setting aside funds each year for facility projects, and most of that money will now be committed to paying for this HVAC replacement over the next 10-15 years. That means we’ll have fewer dollars available for other building updates or ‘nice-to-have’ projects during that time,” Isaacson said. “Still, replacing the high school’s system isn’t optional – it’s a necessity.
“Waiting longer would only cost more and create greater risk of system failure.”
Looking ahead
Once the HVAC project is complete, district officials anticipate a 10 percent annual reduction in utility costs.
Officials said districtwide LED lighting and HVAC upgrades at the Primary School in 2021 have saved more than $290,000 in energy costs.
“This project reflects years of careful planning, responsible financial management and a commitment to providing safe, efficient learning environments for our students,” said Clay LaRue, assistant superintendent of operations.