Minnetonka outlines $142 million facilities plan, phases possible bond referendums

The Minnetonka Public School District presented the Facilities Task Force recommendations and conceptual cost estimates during its Jan. 20 board study session, including a phased financing plan that would reduce an initial $193 million portfolio to a proposed $142 million package the district would seek in multiple bond issues.

Executive Director of Finance and Operations Bourgeois detailed site‑level concepts for elementary, middle and high‑school campuses and the tax‑impact modeling staff used to shape a staged approach. The presentation included both building footprints and preliminary cost estimates for specific projects.

Why it matters: The proposal would be the district’s first major building referendum since 1996 and would fund additions and renovations intended to address classroom space, performing‑arts venues, gymnasiums, small‑group instructional rooms, restrooms, and security upgrades across the district.

Key elements of the proposal and costs

- Full‑district picture and reductions: First Cut Solutions estimated a full package of task‑force recommendations at about $193 million; staff presented a scaled $142 million package intended to be more affordable and to increase the probability of voter support.

- Elementary projects (examples): Clear Springs — restrooms, special‑education motor classroom and small‑group rooms (estimate reported by staff: roughly $3.3…