Firm gives $75K to Otsego schools

OTSEGO, Mich. (WOOD) - An architectural firm that designed the new Otsego High School has given the district the money it received in tax breaks.

To encourage energy conservation, the federal Energy Act allows architects and contractors to apply for tax credits for projects in which energy requirements are exceeded. Tower Pinkster designed the new school, was eligible for these tax credits, applied and received $75,000.

Representatives from Tower Pinkster presented Superintendent Denny Patzer with a check at Monday night's board of education meeting.

"To me, it's just the right thing to do," said Arnie Mikon, Tower Pinkster president and CEO who also recognized the need for more funding for education. "I think anyone involved in education right now knows this comes at a very good time."

The energy-efficient design of the new high school, which opened in 2007, is allowing the district to save each month on energy bills. Patzer said the energy conservation measures are in every utility aspect, from the lights, to thethermal windows and high energy-efficient boilers.

Board President Renny Ransbottom said this act is further evidence the school made the right choice when hiring Tower Pinkster for the job.

"They're the right kind of people for us," he said in a news release. "We have seen nothing but great things from Tower Pinkster. They have helped us along every step and always make sure things are done right. And now they're sharing what could have been theirs for our efforts to improve energy efficiency in the school."

Their work continues to awe the public as well.

"It's been four years since the completion of the project, and we're still hearing compliments on a regular basis from visitors about how impressed they are with the facility," said Patzer.

Since the money stems from a facility project, Patzer would like this rebate money to go toward building projects. The exact use of the money has not yet been determined.