District budget outlook, CTE project filings and turf‑field replacement costs highlighted in fiscal update

Dr. Wymer told the Merced Union High School District board that state and national economic indicators provide some positive signs for district revenues, but local enrollment and construction trends create challenges for long‑term planning.

Wymer cited 4.3% growth in quarter three and said wages have outpaced inflation since 2019, but emphasized that local costs such as housing and food shape public perceptions. He said the district currently has about $15,000,000 in CTE projects and $10,000,000 in modernization projects filed with the state; those filings imply a need for roughly $12,500,000 in local matching funds before projects can proceed.

On potential next steps for a facilities measure, Wymer said the district will run a voter survey with results expected in March and that August 9 is the deadline to place an item on the November ballot; staff recommended making a decision by June to leave time for paperwork. He also noted CTE funding results will be known in March and final funding decisions by December.

Wymer gave detailed guidance on turf fields, stressing that turf is not a one‑time expense: typical lifespans are 8–10 years, replacement costs vary, and the district would need to budget annual set‑asides. He estimated the district should set aside roughly $1.1 million per year to cover replacement costs over time if multiple turf fields are installed and maintained.

Trustees asked about alternatives such as improved drainage, irrigation and grass maintenance. Wymer said some sites have built‑in drainage and that drainage/irrigation improvements could be considered in the master plan, but cautioned that full lifecycle costs for turf require dedicated reserves.

Wymer also summarized timeline items: master plan review in March–April, a May review of survey results, and board decision windows in June and August if the district pursues a November measure.