District Discusses $1.6 Million Plan for Administrative Office Replacement and Safety Measures

The RSU 22 Budget Workshop held on May 14, 2025, spotlighted critical financial decisions aimed at enhancing safety and infrastructure within the district. A key highlight was the proposal to allocate $527,000 into the capital reserve account, which includes funding for an emergency safety platform called Syntegix. This innovative system, designed to improve safety in schools, allows staff to alert emergency services with the push of a button. The urgency of this investment was underscored by its potential to save lives, as demonstrated in other districts across the country.

In addition to safety measures, the budget workshop addressed the pressing need for infrastructure improvements. The district plans to invest in various maintenance projects totaling $453,200, which includes new playground equipment and essential repairs to roofing and HVAC systems. The discussion also revealed a commitment to replace the aging administrative office, with a proposed budget of $1.6 million. This new facility aims to resolve ongoing issues such as air quality and ADA compliance, ensuring a healthier work environment for staff.

The meeting also touched on the importance of maintaining reserve accounts for future needs, including a $150,000 commitment towards turf replacement for athletic facilities. However, the district faces challenges in attracting large athletic events due to increased competition from nearby facilities, which has diluted the availability of such events.

Overall, the workshop emphasized a proactive approach to budgeting, focusing on safety, infrastructure, and community commitments, while also preparing for future needs. The next steps will involve community engagement through informational sessions and a referendum to secure funding for the proposed projects.