The Tamaqua School Board used a rainy night to meet and get their ducks in a row to save money.

During a meeting Tuesday, members of the finance committee decided to direct Business Manager Connie Ligenza to participate in the Pennsylvania Joint Purchasing Council's bid process for the 2015-16 fiscal year for general paper, art, maintenance, custodial, computer, food service, heating fuel and athletic supplies. Ligenza will also participate in the E-rate program for the same time period, which will allow the district to access Internet, telecommunications and web-hosting services at discounts which are approximately 56 percent of actual cost.The education committee approved the second reading of policies involving tobacco use on school property and in school vehicles. Tobacco and tobacco products are currently banned; the policies have been adapted to include a ban on electronic cigarettes, commonly called e-cigarettes.The full board will vote on the purchasing agreements, and the amended policies, during the meeting at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. The board is also expected to approve the purchase of a lift, which is recommended by the finance committee.Three companies have submitted quotes for the lift, with the lowest coming from Omni Lift Inc. at $16,745. Ligenza said that the lift will be used in facilities such as the gymnasium, auditorium, stadium, natatorium and classrooms (depending on ceiling height) for maintenance of HVAC systems, lighting, signs, painting and other repairs.