By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
USD 428's Support Services building on East 10th Street in Great Bend survived some hiccups, namely the large explosion of a neighboring residence in March. Now, the district is ready to show off the $4.82 million facility that will house its Central Kitchen and Maintenance, Grounds and Transportation departments. Public Information Director Andrea Bauer encourages the public to attend an open house on Wednesday, Oct. 11, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.
"We're going to have tours of the facility, some freshments, and we'll give you a job while you're there, too," she said. "We've got some openings we want to highlight. It's just a great opportunity while we're welcoming in the community, let them tour and consider what it might look like to work for USD 428."
The district purchased the existing structure and surrounding property at 625 E. 10th Street in December 2021 for $1.55 million. In August 2022, the board of education approved plans to renovate the building. Renovations were expected to begin in January of this year but started in late 2022. Large components of the project included a new HVAC system and new equipment for the kitchen.
"Our Central Kitchen and Maintenance/Transportation, those departments impact students in real ways," Bauer said. "It's impressive the work they do. We're excited to open the doors and really bring in the community to showcase this. There's a lot more efficiency. It's a great opportunity to see how we can better serve our students and community."
The Open House will also include a job fair with the district seeking applicants for a plumber, bus drivers, and food service workers. Review or apply for those jobs ahead of the Oct. 11 event at www.428jobs.net.