Warwick City Council debates bond for two new high schools amid public concerns

During the Warwick City Council meeting on February 10, 2025, significant discussions centered around the future of public education and the construction of two new high schools in the city. A passionate parent emphasized the importance of providing quality education, stating that failing to move forward with the proposed plans would be a disservice to the children of Warwick. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among parents in the district about the educational opportunities available to their children.

The council also heard from Jim Mixner, who highlighted the financial implications of the proposed bond for the schools. He noted that the projected property tax impact has increased since 2022, with individual tax adjustments potentially reaching $360 annually. Mixner urged the council to communicate these figures clearly to the public, emphasizing the community's collective goal of enhancing Warwick Public Schools.

Additionally, Anthony Cherry, assistant executive director of Build RI, voiced strong opposition to a resolution that could delay the construction of the new high schools. He warned that postponing the groundbreaking, scheduled for April, could lead to uncertainty among subcontractors, potentially driving up costs and complicating the bidding process. Cherry pointed out that the community had already expressed support for the school funding in a high-turnout election in November 2022, arguing that a special election would undermine the will of the majority.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the community's commitment to advancing educational infrastructure and the potential economic impact on local tradespeople involved in the construction projects. As the council moves forward, the implications of these decisions will be closely watched by both parents and local contractors, highlighting the intersection of education and economic development in Warwick.