(Atlantic) The Atlantic School Board tabled action on the SVPA/DCI projects at Wednesday’s special meeting.
Voters in the Atlantic Community School District approved a General Obligation Bond measure in November for up to $22.5 million to support classroom additions and a new secure entrance at Washington Elementary, a new skybridge and commons area connecting Schuler Elementary and the Middle School, and classroom additions at the High School. The project also includes remodeling, repairs, and upgrades to existing educational facilities, including additional secure entrances, media center and commons area improvements at the High School, and related site improvements at each building.
Atlantic School Board President Josh McLaren said during their last work session they met with the DCI group and the architect team and it was noted that the estimates came in a lot higher than what they expected in the bond issue.
McLaren said that since the money is outside of the bond issue, they are looking at ways to either scale back the projects or find other funding sources to pay for them. He said they have discussed several ideas, but at this point they need to consult with their attorneys to ensure the plans fall within the scope of the bond language.
Superintendent Dr. Beth Johnsen said she met via Zoom with Travis Squires, a funding advisor with Piper Sandler, to review the numbers. They discussed capital projects and SAVE dollars to better understand how the district would use the funding, including the General Obligation bonds and future SAVE revenue.
SVPA and DCI are looking to begin the actual design phase of the projects and asked the board to approve a resolution for the $26 million project budget.
Board member Chase Roller…
The School Board agreed to table action until consulting with the school attorney. They hope to hold another special meeting next week to approve the projects.
