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District reports heating and leak problems at multiple schools; board urges voters to back half‑cent sales tax for repairs

Gadsden County School Board · December 16, 2025
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Summary

Facilities staff described heating failures, leaks and temporary repairs at several Gadsden County schools; the board urged approval of a proposed half‑cent county sales tax and proposed a citizen oversight committee to ensure funds are used for renovations.

Facilities staff told the board at the Dec. 16 workshop that several schools experienced recent heating failures and leaks and that temporary fixes are in place while parts and contractors are secured.

"We have a lot of issues in the district...we come up with a plan of attack and figure out what it takes to fix the problem," the facilities presenter said, listing heat outages at George Monroe (4th grade wing), problems in a science lab, portables and gym units, and a leak at the high school. The presenter and maintenance staff described short‑term workarounds and ongoing repair needs.

Board members repeatedly raised concern for student comfort and safety if systems fail on cold days and urged more visible community outreach about conditions and repairs. A board member recommended that community stakeholders visit schools and see conditions firsthand.

To fund larger renovations, the chair urged support for a proposed half‑cent sales tax to appear on the county ballot and said the district proposed a citizens' oversight committee including a board representative to monitor expenditures. "Please help us with this asset sales tax and pass this thing when it's put on the ballot," the chair said as the board prepared to adjourn and attend the County Commission meeting where commissioners were set to vote on placing the measure on the ballot.

Next steps: the board adjourned the workshop to attend the county meeting; district staff said they will continue temporary repairs, procure needed parts and provide prioritized lists of facility projects to guide the oversight committee if the ballot measure is approved.