Kelly Richins

The proceedings began with a public hearing regarding the proposed issuance of Lease Revenue Bonds by the Local Building Authority (LBA) for Series 2026 financing. Public input covered various perspectives, including concerns about the necessity of new construction given current tax burdens, school conditions (such as inadequate heating and cooling), and fiscal prudence versus immediate need. Following the closure of the initial public hearing, the Board of Education considered and adopted the resolution authorizing the issuance of the lease revenue bonds. Subsequently, the board convened as the Board of Trustees of the Local Building Authority, held a second public hearing (where no public comments were offered), and adopted the bond resolution for the Authority. The board then reconvened as the Board of Education before adjourning the public hearing.

The meeting was convened to canvass the results of the bond election. The board publicly proceeded to canvass and declare the results of the bond election. The board approved and ratified the results of the special bond election.

The meeting was held for citizen participation regarding a bond. Citizens were allowed to speak in favor or against the bond. Topics discussed included the safety and condition of the current building, the necessity of a new school for safety and up-to-date learning, and the potential financial impact on the community.

The bond hearing meeting discussed a proposal for a new high school. Key points included the assessment of the existing high school, the recommendation to replace it, and the planned capacity for the new building. The program components include general education classrooms, CTE arts, steam education, performing arts, special education, and athletics. The total planned square footage is approximately 169,000 square feet. The estimated cost for the high school site is $91 million, with an additional $8 million for athletic fields. The new pool will open in the summer of 2030. The bond request is $121 million, with allocations for the school, pool, and athletic pools.

The bond hearing discussed the proposal to build a new high school. The existing high school faces challenges including structural risks, outdated mechanical and electrical systems, security concerns due to multiple entry points and poor visibility, and technological limitations. The proposal includes constructing a new high school on a property in North Kovville, which is well-suited to accommodate the needs of the high school. The new high school will be completed without impacting the existing high schoolers. The existing site will be demolished, and a new pool will be built.