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Dixon Unified facility advisory hears possible $65 million from developers; board signs off on polling and bond counsel to test voter support
Summary
The district's Strategic Use of Facilities Advisory Group reported potential developer contributions totaling about $65 million if proposed projects are approved; the board approved a contract with True North Research for polling and Jones Hall for bond counsel to assess and prepare for a possible bond measure.
Dixon Unified’s Strategic Use of Facilities Advisory Group reported to the board Sept. 18 that conversations with local developers identify a potential source of roughly $65 million in funding tied to proposed projects. The amount would be available only if those developments are approved and conditions met.
Superintendent Brett Barley said the district and the advisory group are considering whether some of that potential funding could be pulled forward to address immediate facility needs; the earliest the district could access funds would be the 2029–30 school year if projects and approvals proceed on that timeline. The advisory group is also developing a comprehensive needs list and recommended two consultant contracts that the board approved during the meeting.
The board approved a contract with True North Research Inc. to conduct public polling on community support for a potential bond measure and approved Jones Hall to serve as bond counsel. Superintendent Barley said True North was selected from multiple firms after interviews recommended by the district’s municipal advisor, ISM Advisors. "If you were to approve tonight, we would be in the field later this fall," Barley said.
Why this matters: developer-funded mitigation or impact monies and a voter-approved bond are two distinct revenue paths. Developer payments are contingent on project approvals and timelines beyond district control; polling and bond counsel work are preparatory steps that allow the district to determine community support and to structure a potential bond.
Board discussion emphasized next steps: the advisory group will continue developing a needs list and continue conversations with developers; staff will report back with polling results before the winter break. Jones Hall partner Katie Dobson introduced her firm, noting it specializes in municipal finance and school district bonds.
Ending: The board’s approvals allow the district to commission polling and legal work needed to evaluate options for financing facility improvements, while the advisory group continues to refine needs and timelines.
