School board approves notice for $4.46 million 2025A bonds, clears taxable series and $3.6M technology lease

The Bartlesville School Board voted unanimously to proceed with a three-part financing package announced at its Feb. 1 meeting: a notice of sale for $4,460,000 in 2025A general-obligation bonds, a taxable 2025B series of $1,035,000, and authorization to pursue a $3,600,000 lease-purchase agreement for technology.

A presenter (S11) described the 2025A series as an eight-year issue maturing in 2033 with a projected interest rate near 3.5 percent; proceeds are intended for nonconstruction operating needs such as technology, plant services, transportation and textbooks. The board was asked to approve a resolution as presented to begin the formal sale process; S9 moved approval and S6 seconded. The board recorded unanimous 'aye' votes and approved the notice.

The 2025B series is taxable, short-term debt with a two-year maturity intended to cover lease obligations tied to prior election authorizations and to reduce near-term interest costs. The board approved that series in the same motion sequence.

Action C authorized the district to advertise for bids and enter a lease-purchase arrangement—authorized by the 2023 election authorization—for $3.6 million in technology equipment. S11 said bids are expected in mid-March with a closing by the end of the month; final contract signing would be handled by the board president or vice president after bid selection.

Together, the three approved items represent district plans to fund operating and technology needs without returning immediately to a bond election for this portion of work. The board did not set final sale dates or exact interest costs tonight; S11 said the actual bond sale is scheduled for April and market conditions will determine final rates.

The meeting adjourned after the votes.