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Cohoes CSD BOE Meeting July 8, 2026
Published: Jul 8, 2026
Softball Field Drainage Issues Addressed with Proposed Surface Drains
Concerns were raised regarding drainage issues at the softball field's infield and outfield, particularly during heavy rain events where puddles form on the clay infield and sheet across paved areas. The field pitches from the direction of senior homes down towards the infield. While underdrains exist in the infield, they are slow to process water during heavy rainfall. The recommended solution is to add four surface drains along the fence line with a silt fabric. An alternative considered is to recess drains and cover them with artificial turf of a clay color to mitigate safety hazards. The current grading of the field, which pitches towards the infield, contributes to the surface water issue, although it was noted that the field was existing and not regraded during a redesign.
Board Discusses "Green Schools Initiative" for Building Decarbonization
The board discussed the "Green Schools Initiative" presented by CSR Clo and Paul Nickerson, a program funded by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to help public schools decarbonize buildings, reduce energy costs, and create healthier learning environments. The initiative offers potential awards of up to $10 million per project, capped at $15 million per district, with individual building awards up to $5 million. The process involves completing an energy study, submitting an application to NYSERDA for review and approval, and then submitting the project to the State Building (SB) for permitting, bidding, and installation. Payments are provided by NYSERDA according to a schedule. The current round (Round 3) is nearing its deadline, and the focus is on preparing for Round 4, scheduled for the first quarter of the next year. The timeline for Round 4 includes issuing an RFP for an energy consultant by July 17th, with applications due by July 31st, and interviews for the consultant by August 26th. The consultant will work with the district architect to complete the energy study in autumn 2026, with the NYSERDA application due in the first quarter of 2027. The project would then be put to voters in spring 2027 for approval and implementation. Costs for the energy study and consultant can be included in the application, and state and federal funds can offset total project costs.
District Faces Staffing Shortages Across Multiple Schools and Roles
The board discussed staffing updates, including open positions at various school levels. At the high school, a science position remains open, and nurse interviews are scheduled. The middle school has an open math position and one to two special education positions, with two special education hires already made. Other open positions include a teacher assistant, a functional skills special education role at the Eddie from Lanson school, a shared position between Harmony and neighboring schools, and a position for the ENL (English as a New Language) group at Skype, which is also shared with the high school. The Director of MTSS position is still open, with challenges due to grant funding limitations. Senior cleaner positions are pending an MOA (Memorandum of Agreement) with labor relations. Assistant director interviews are scheduled for the following week. The district is also hosting districtwide aids for special education and classroom support. A recommendation for a full-time campus safety member at Skype was noted, as the current coverage is only three days a week. The MTSS position was confirmed to require administrative certification.
Capital Project Construction Nears Completion; Change Orders Presented
The board reviewed construction updates related to the 2021 capital project, with Phase One (three projects at elementary schools) and Phase Two (five projects, including the high school) seeing significant progress. Phase One and Three projects are complete, and the high school project within Phase Two is also complete. Approximately $14 million of the $20 million allocated for Phase Two work is complete. Change orders were presented on the agenda to finalize contracts for these projects. These change orders, including two negative ones for conduit repair and electrical work, and three for TK (likely referring to a contractor or system), are necessary to account for physical changes in contracts. For example, TK required return visits for inspections due to issues outside their control, such as emergency light or sprinkler head malfunctions. The final phase of the existing capital reserve work has begun at the high school, overseen by Charter and Joe Ed, with coordination efforts with the city to ensure smooth operations.
Board Considers Forming Transportation Committee Amidst Community Concerns
A discussion took place regarding the formation of a transportation committee, prompted by a parent who has organized a group focused on transportation issues. The committee would aim to research, gather input, and discuss how to improve student transportation, including walking and biking within the city, in partnership with parents and the city. It was suggested that the committee would serve as a liaison between the organized parent group and the school. The board acknowledged the need for such a committee, emphasizing that its formation does not prevent action but ensures a cross-section of perspectives from staff, board members, and the community. The communication aspect is crucial, especially regarding state-level regulations impacting bus services, to accurately inform the community about the reasons behind transportation limitations and to direct advocacy efforts towards appropriate governmental bodies. The committee would also provide clarity on actual costs and state regulations affecting transportation funding, particularly relevant for a small city with limited state aid compared to its size. Several board members volunteered to serve on the committee, including for DEI and technology committees, with openings also available on audit, budget, district safety, policy, and transportation committees.
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