Colleton trustees approve up-to-$16 million general obligation bond to fund capital projects, 5-2

The Colleton County School District Board of Trustees approved a resolution on March 18 authorizing the issuance and sale of up to $16,000,000 in general obligation bonds. Trustees said bond proceeds will be used for capital projects and facility needs, not for operating expenses such as payroll.

Board members discussed trade-offs before the vote. One trustee urged caution about borrowing when the district has available reserves, saying paying interest on bonds could be wasteful if the district could use existing funds. Other trustees and administrators emphasized the scale of capital needs—roofs, building systems and other infrastructure—that require dedicated financing.

During the presentation and ensuing discussion, Dr. Wright (Division of Operational Management) told the board the district is compiling a prioritized list of urgent "tier 1" capital projects that would be brought forward for budgeting and coordination. Trustees also discussed the timing of multiple roof warranties; one warranty for the Northside roof is due to expire on July 29, 2025.

The motion to accept the bond resolution carried by a 5-2 vote. Board members who opposed the measure said they preferred to use district reserves rather than borrow and pay interest; those supporting the resolution said the bonds are necessary to address life, health and safety needs and to plan capital projects methodically.

Ending The board said it will present a consolidated capital project plan (tier 1 projects) to trustees, likely at an upcoming meeting, to sequence work funded by the bond.