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Task force and consultant say district survey supports a $15M–$20M capital referendum; board to consider options
Summary
A Nexus consultant and local task force presented a community facilities survey showing majority support for targeted capital work; the task force recommended an ~$18M first-question referendum to address mechanical, safety and building needs and suggested a smaller second question for athletics and other projects.
A consultant who conducted the Three Lakes School District community survey told the board the district is positioned to seek capital funding in the spring if the board and community agree on priorities and price.
"A referendum of 15,000,000 or more, but less than 20, will likely have support," the Nexus representative said, summarizing a weighted analysis of 643 survey responses (a 16% response rate). The consultant said a $15 million question would likely clear the 50% threshold used to pass district referendums and that a $20 million package would be close but below the likely support threshold; a $25.2 million package tested would not pass.
Why it matters: the district’s facilities—many last modernized during a 1992 referendum—contain mechanical and electrical systems that a large share of residents rated a high priority. The Nexus slides showed mechanical/electrical work as the highest-ranked need, followed by safety and security, building exterior/site work and classroom/support-area improvements.
The task force that helped develop the survey and prioritize projects recommended the board consider a first, larger question in the roughly $18 million range focused on critical systems and safety, and a separate, smaller second question to address athletics and other lower-priority projects. "Look at things that are really critical, and go to referendum and ask a question on that," a task force member said.
Task force members and other presenters cautioned the board that costs rise over time and that delaying large repairs typically increases the price tag. They also recommended clear, early communication with residents about what would be included and why those projects are necessary.
Next steps: the consultant advised that, if the board decides to place a question on the April ballot, a resolution would need to be approved in January to meet statutory timing. Board members said they would discuss the task force recommendation at the December meeting and consider a special meeting if needed to refine project lists and costs.
Speakers quoted: the Nexus representative; task force members Brian Fritz, George Polcaster and others who participated in the presentation and Q&A.
