CCC board moves toward energy improvements

CLOVIS — The Clovis Community College Board of Trustees on Wednesday took two big steps toward beginning work for the college’s long-awaited energy performance improvements.

The board unanimously approved a contract agreement with Siemens Industry, Inc., which outlines the work to be done, and an equipment lease/purchase agreement with BBVA Compass Bank, which outlines the financing of the project.

The project will provide energy savings improvements to CCC’s lighting, heating/air conditioning and water systems and will also include a solar grid.

Chief Financial Officer Tom Drake said the project will cost CCC $4,797,650 and he has been working on securing it for two years.

According to the lease/purchase agreement, work resulting from the equipment upgrades will save CCC nearly $5.4 million in utility costs over 20 years.

College President Becky Rowley said work will begin in 2018 when CCC can start to spend money from a general obligation bond, which will help finance the project. The next step is for the college to begin purchasing equipment.

Also at Wednesday’s meeting:

• The board unanimously approved a list of 303 expected graduates for the fall 2017 semester.

• The board unanimously approved a contract with Nick Griego & Sons Inc. for $149,949 to provide finishes to the lobby and reception area of the Norman & Vi Petty Performing Arts Center.

• The board approved budget adjustments for fiscal year 2018. The adjustments included completion of demolition of the barracks, information technology projects to upgrade the administrative system, continued renovation of the Petty Performing Arts Center, grant revenue and associated expense adjustments based on funding letters and plant projects including the library roof replacement and grounds building replacement.