When is a boiler more than just a boiler? In the Cripple Creek/Victor School District, the $250,000 boiler for Cresson Elementary School reflects integrity.

“It is important for community members to know that the school board is putting their tax dollars to good use in a proactive, fiscally responsible manner,” said CCV Superintendent Dan Cummings.

The boiler and water heater spring from the voter-approved ballot initiative 4A when 61.91 % of district voters last year approved a measure to continue the tax previously approved.  The tax is expected to generate $500,000 a year for the school district.

“We’re pretty tickled and grateful to the voters,” said Donna Brazill, the board president.

The old boiler was the original, installed when Cresson opened in 1994.

“We got our money’s worth,” Brazil said.

The new boiler arrived before winter roars in for what is predicted to bring El Nino snowstorms and cold.  

“We didn’t want students to freeze when it’s 10 degrees outside,” Brazill said. “This affects the school-based clinic, too.”

Brazill credits Tom Hess, the district’s director of facilities, for developing a maintenance plan that aligns with the district budget.

“Tom is keeping us on track,” Brazill said. “The next project is going to be the roofs.”