Las Vegas Council approves $8.7M expansion of Strong Start Academy at Tony Hsieh Center

The Las Vegas City Council meeting on April 3, 2025, focused on significant developments regarding the Strong Start Academy Elementary School and various board appointments. The council approved two key items related to the expansion of the Tony Hsieh Education Center, which will enhance educational facilities in the area.

The first item discussed was the allocation of $60 million awarded last year, specifically for the construction of a new building at the education center located at 320 South Ninth Street. This new structure will add nine classrooms, increasing capacity for students and providing a modern educational environment. The total cost of the project is estimated at $8.7 million, with funding sourced from new market tax credits and contributions from the Las Vegas Community Investment Corporation (LVCIC). The project is expected to be completed within a compliance period of seven years, during which the council will monitor its progress.

Following the discussion on the education center, the council moved to approve the necessary resolutions for the project. Both agenda items related to the expansion were unanimously passed, reflecting the council's commitment to improving educational infrastructure in the community.

In addition to the educational project, the council addressed several appointments to various boards and commissions. Marilyn Booker was appointed to the Audit Oversight Committee, while Brittani Fiedler and Elizabeth Voigt were appointed to the Las Vegas Clark County Library District Board of Trustees. The council also reappointed Kate Turner Whiteley to the library board and appointed Linda Young to the Senior Citizens Advisory Board.

These appointments highlight the council's ongoing efforts to engage community members in local governance and ensure diverse representation across various boards. The meeting concluded with a sense of progress towards enhancing educational and community services in Las Vegas.