Tipton County administrators reported ongoing progress on school capital projects, said the district has received its first reimbursement from the state program referenced in the meeting, and reminded the board of an internal Jan. 12 deadline for a decision about the former Covington site.

Dr. Collins told the board that building finishes are moving forward, with sanding, polishing and sealing of elementary floors, cafeteria flooring installation, kitchen inspections completed and furniture in place for middle and elementary wings. The district has ordered new cafeteria tables, with staff estimating a 6–8 week delivery window.

Collins reported that the district's first reimbursement from the state program (referred to in the transcript as "Tima") has hit the bank and the second request is being processed. He told the board the total in process exceeded $8,000,000 and that staff anticipate that reimbursements will largely close the budget gap; he said the goal is to end with $0 out of fund balance. Board members discussed a possible small local match if necessary.

On the former Covington site, Collins said many community members prefer keeping the concrete surface for events and local uses, but the district's contract with the city includes a clause that could require returning the site to a ballpark. Collins said he had set a Jan. 12 deadline for the city to state its preference; if the city does not alter course the district will proceed with removing the structure and leaving either the concrete or returning the site to dirt as the contract requires. Collins also noted that some leased items and modular structures will be removed by the vendor as part of demolition, leaving the concrete slab and interior studs depending on the chosen option.

Board members did not take a formal vote on the Covington site's ultimate disposition at this meeting; staff said they will meet with city officials and return with any contract renegotiation proposals if needed.