(Atlantic) The Atlantic School Board held a lengthy discussion Wednesday evening on the Facilities Master Plan survey results and the proposed bond referendum.
Over the past year, the district has partnered with contractors, architects, and engineers as part of its facility planning to assess its buildings and grounds. This work resulted in a 10-year Facilities Master Plan designed to guide future improvements.
A report received this summer identified an estimated $40 million in maintenance, renovations, and new construction projects across multiple campuses. The proposed work includes classroom renovations, upgrades to safety and security systems, infrastructure improvements, and a new fieldhouse at Atlantic High School.
The board reviewed the results of a recent community survey and noted that the public generally agreed that work is needed at Washington Elementary, though there appeared to be less interest in the proposed field house. Several comments highlighted the distinction between needs and wants. Board member Gini Jordan…
The survey also indicated areas where the Board needs to improve communication, particularly concerning financing. While the project is estimated at $40 million, at least 60% of Atlantic CSD voters would need to approve a $27 million bond referendum in November. The district would then use $13 million in state sales tax revenue and local funds to cover the remaining costs.
Fact sheets on the facilities plan, including information on the tax impact to patrons, will be provided to the public soon.
In the end, the school board agreed that the decisions they made were sound and that they want to move forward with the project. Board members were asked why they support it. Laura McLean said she views it, to some extent, as a matter of competition.
Josh McLaren said this project will affect every single kid.
Others commented that this project shows community pride and forward thinking.
A link to the master plan report is posted HERE. It was noted that all of these plans are currently conceptual. The bond issue must first pass before any details can be finalized.
