LIVERPOOL, NY – The Liverpool Central School District Board of Education moved forward with significant facility improvements on Monday, unanimously approving construction bids for the first phase of the 2024 Capital Improvement Project. The vote, which passed 7-0 with trustees Nicholas Blaney, Jecenia Bresett, Daniel McKeever, Stacey Chilbert, John Solazzo, Kimberly Melnik, and Matthew Jones in favor, allows the district to begin construction work. The approval came during the board's regular meeting on February 9, 2026, held at the District Office. While the capital project moves ahead, district officials are also turning their attention to safety and security. Superintendent Mark Chapman told the board that the district’s last Safety and Security Audit was conducted in 2013. “Mr. Chapman will explore the cost involved in such an audit,” the minutes noted. Additionally, the administration is evaluating physical security upgrades. A quote from Day Automation for an Open Gate System came in at approximately $27,000 for one unit. Board Member Jecenia Bresett voiced her support for added measures, stating she is “absolutely in support of extra layers of security.” The legal landscape regarding facility use is also evolving. Chapman discussed a review of fees charged to outside organizations that use district buildings. Citing legal counsel, the superintendent noted that schools cannot be profit-generating. However, with new requirements under Desha’s Law—which mandates safety protocols for youth organizations—the district must ensure its building use policies and fees are consistent with insurance and legal requirements. **Community and Representation** The meeting began with a moment of significance for student voice. Nandika Rajaram was administered the oath of office to serve as the new Ex-Officio Student Board Member, joining Aryan Hatef in representing the student body. Student representatives updated the board on high school activities, highlighting the recent CTE Pathways Night, the upcoming Strings Ensemble concert, and a Black History Month celebration scheduled for February 27. The students also wished the community a restful winter break. In Board Communications, Matthew Jones addressed comments regarding charter schools made during the previous meeting on January 29. “He apologizes for any pain his comments may have caused,” the minutes recorded. **Financial Outlook** The board accepted the 2026-2027 Draft Budget update, a move that precedes the annual budget vote. While specific line items were not detailed in the approved minutes, the financial situation remains a primary focus for the board. “The budget gap is serious and will take serious consideration to close the gap,” said Mr. McKeever. Mrs. Chilbert reinforced the board's fiscal responsibility. “She stated that she will always continue to ask questions and make sure no stone is left unturned regarding the budget because the School Board is always to blame,” the minutes noted. **Other Business** In addition to the capital project, the board approved a baseball trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and the creation of new clubs, including a GSA Club. The board will next meet on February 23, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the District Office. Prior to that meeting, a Strategic Planning session will be held at 4:30 p.m. at Soule Road Elementary in the Town Center.