Southwood Schools outlines $115M bond proposal for new facilities and community center

The Pataskala City Council convened on March 17, 2025, to discuss significant developments impacting local education and community facilities. A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Casey Perkins, the superintendent of Southwood Schools, regarding a proposed $115 million bond aimed at addressing the growing needs of the district's educational infrastructure.

Perkins outlined the urgent need for expansion due to increasing student enrollment, particularly at the middle and high school levels, which are currently operating beyond capacity. The proposed bond would fund the construction of a new middle school for grades 5 and 6, convert the existing middle school into a junior high for grades 7 and 8, and expand the high school to accommodate up to 1,700 students. This plan aims to ensure that all elementary schools can serve grades K-4, thereby optimizing the educational environment for younger students.

In addition to the educational facilities, Perkins introduced an exciting partnership with the YMCA to develop a multi-purpose training facility and aquatic center, known as "The Sphere." This facility will not only serve student athletes but also provide community access to recreational amenities, including a splash pad and picnic areas. The Sphere is designed to be inclusive, allowing all community members to benefit from its offerings, regardless of YMCA membership.

The financial implications of the bond were also discussed. Perkins noted that, despite the increase in the bond amount, the cost to homeowners would remain relatively low, at approximately $12 per $100,000 of home value, reflecting the growth in the tax base since the last bond was issued in 2017.

Other topics addressed during the meeting included updates on community safety initiatives, such as the upcoming Safety Town program aimed at educating kindergarten students about safety, and the repurposing of the old middle school site for additional parking. The council also discussed ongoing efforts to improve local parks and address vandalism incidents, ensuring that community spaces remain safe and welcoming.

As the council moves forward, the focus remains on enhancing educational facilities and community resources, reflecting a commitment to meeting the needs of Pataskala's growing population. The next steps will involve public discussions and further planning to ensure these initiatives align with community goals and expectations.