Hillsboro School District prepares for bond development with new committee and RFPs

The Hillsboro School District's School Board meeting on May 27, 2025, focused on the upcoming bond development process and the strategic planning for future projects. Key discussions included the selection of a consulting firm to assist with the bond development and the financial implications of the district's previous bond measures.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the success of the last bond initiative, which generated significant funding through a combination of bond sales and state grants. The district received nearly $80,000 in bond sale premiums and an additional $14.5 million in bond interest, contributing to a total investment of $514 million from the 2017 bond. However, the current financial landscape presents challenges, with projections indicating a reduced capacity for new bonds, estimated at $250 to $300 million.

To navigate this process, the district has issued a request for proposals (RFP) to nine local firms, aiming to select a consultant by the June 17 meeting. This consultant will help identify project needs and develop a comprehensive bond proposal to present to the community. The bond development committee, co-chaired by former Hillsboro Mayor Steve Cowell and current board member Erica Lopez, will play a crucial role in prioritizing projects and engaging with the community for feedback.

Board members expressed the importance of maintaining transparency and community involvement throughout the bond development process. They discussed strategies to effectively communicate the bond's benefits to voters, emphasizing that the goal is to maintain current tax rates while addressing essential maintenance and infrastructure needs.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to return on June 17 with a recommended consulting firm and further details on the bond proposal, ensuring that the district is well-prepared to address its financial and infrastructural challenges moving forward.