In a meeting in Brighton, the Washington school board approves bids for the auditorium project. Photo by Sally Y. Hart

Ground is likely to be broken in July for Washington’s new auditorium project. At last night’s Washington Community School board meeting, bids for the project were approved unanimously. Of the 13 bid packages seven were under budget, two were within 10% and four were over 10% of the budget. Overall there was a $400,000 budget gap. Superintendent Dr. Mike Jorgensen said the district will use $100,000 of the money they saved last month when they refinanced loans to close the gap, and will save $50,000 in various choices and change orders in the project.

Jorgensen explained the other $250,000 will come from West Chester Savings Bank, Washington State Bank and Hills Bank for gap financing. This trio of banks will cover the gap until further funds can be raised and the agreement is with Washington Economic Development Group, not the school district.

Jan Gallagher explained they believe there are still donors in the community who have yet to make a pledge and others who may be able to extend their pledges to the project. Also, they have some naming rights they may be able to sell, such as sections of the theater or seats.