Seymour board approves borrowing resolution for new Bunge Elementary; town share estimated near $20 million

The Board of Selectmen on May 20 approved a resolution to authorize borrowing for a new Bunge Elementary School on Bunge Road, with an appropriation figure presented to voters of $60,000,000. The vote to move the resolution passed unanimously.

Board members spent much of the discussion clarifying how the $60 million appropriation relates to the town’s estimated out‑of‑pocket cost. “We need to borrow $60,000,000 to build the school, but it’s only gonna cost the town $20,000,000,” said Rich, describing how state reimbursements should lower the town’s net share. Selectpersons said the building committee and bond counsel prepared the appropriation language and that the committee must educate voters so the referendum language is not misunderstood.

The board noted procedural timing: a special town meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025, after which the measure will go to referendum on Oct. 9. Members also discussed execution logistics for the resolution and asked that the signed documents be circulated after the meeting.

A selectperson said the town may be eligible for additional state reimbursement because of recently passed legislation affecting preschool programming; the board said it will seek clarification on how that change might alter reimbursement percentages.

What’s next: the building committee will continue outreach and education to explain the difference between the referendum amount and the town’s expected net cost. The board will complete execution and filing of the resolution and proceed with the special town meeting and referendum schedule.