The Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools are dealing with the same issues individuals and commercial operations are facing – increased costs of doing business.

HSE Facilities Director Matt Rapp updated the school board Tuesday morning on the ten-year plan to keep the school district buildings in good working order.  He cited the nearly $4 million HSE price tag annually on natural gas and electricity use, despite steps taken to reduce consumption, due to dramatic increases in the rates utilities charge.

Rapp cites the Mortenson Construction Cost Index showing a 2.94% hike in construction pricing the past year.  The index also says labor costs have increased 3.2% and cites a labor shortage for skilled contractors.

A project or repair in 2020 that would cost $5,000 has a price tag of $6,500 today.  Bottom line, Rapp says it will cost more to do the same work, year over year.

The project timeline listing shows the Transportation Facility will be completed next year, with Lantern Road and Fishers Elementary Schools set for completion in 2025.  See the chart below for more details.

As the 4th-largest school system in Indiana, Rapp provided the board an idea just how big the facilities are here.  HSE facilities are over 4 million square feet under roof.  By comparison, The Indiana Convention Center, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Lucas oil Stadium and the Salesforce Tower combined have just over 3.9 million square feet total.

To view Matt Rapp’s entire presentation to the board, use this link.