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School board approves nearly $19 million amendment for 30‑classroom addition after heated debate
Summary
The Hernando County School Board approved a $18,989,952 amendment with JE Dunn for a 30‑classroom addition at the Winding Waters/Weeki Wachee campus after a 4–1 vote. Board members debated project costs, design fees and nearby enrollment forecasts before approving the contract amendment.
The Hernando County School Board voted 4–1 on March 11 to approve a second-amendment agreement with JE Dunn Construction Co. for construction of a 30‑classroom addition at the Winding Waters K‑8/Weeki Wachee High School campus, authorizing $18,989,952 in construction goods and services.
The measure drew extended debate about whether the district should proceed now or pause to pursue redistricting and other, less expensive options. Board member Hawkins, who cast the lone dissenting vote, said she had pulled the item specifically to explain why she would oppose it. "I had to pull this just so I could explain why I'm gonna vote no. That's how I feel," Hawkins said during the discussion.
Superintendent Pinder urged approval, arguing the district has limited options without abandoning roughly $2 million already spent on…
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