District 57 says Lincoln/Westbrook projects are under budget, recommends $31 million summer bond sale
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Summary
District officials reported bids and current estimates now put the Lincoln and Westbrook buildouts at about $81 million — roughly $4 million below the referendum ask — and recommended selling $31 million in referendum bonds this summer, with a June resolution and a July sale possible.
District 57 officials told the board that the construction of the new Lincoln school and Westbrook additions is progressing on schedule and, after bid results, is currently tracking below the district’s referendum estimate.
A district presenter said bids and current estimates now project the total program cost at about $81,000,000, down from the $97.1 million figure originally discussed and about $4,000,000 below the $85,000,000 referendum ask. The official recommended the board approve a resolution in June to permit a July sale of $31,000,000 in referendum bonds, which would bring the district’s total bond sales to $81,000,000 and return the difference to taxpayers.
The presentation included construction photos and updates on major building elements: three‑story academic wings with poured concrete floors, a gymnasium built with prefabricated walls, and a combined cafeteria/auditorium “cafetorium.” Board members were shown drone images and interior photos and were told roofing and major structural work have begun.
The district speaker said some budget line items — most notably furniture and technology — remain estimates because purchases have not yet been issued. The presentation also identified additional projects not included in initial bids, including a Westbrook playground tailored to early‑childhood students and security upgrades identified in a September audit (improved classroom door hardware, gates and bollards at site entries). The official said the buildings’ underground storm‑water retention system has been completed.
Board members asked about timing, tax impacts and market risks. Bob Lewis, the district’s financial advisor, explained that bond authority expires five years after the referendum and that issuers generally must have a reasonable expectation to spend at least 85% of proceeds within three years. He said June–July is a typical municipal bond market window and gives the district timing flexibility; sales could be delayed if market conditions worsen. A construction manager said the largest construction contracts were locked in, and going “vertical” reduced the likelihood of large unknown change orders.
The board asked the administration to seek CFAC’s feedback and return with a recommendation at the May meeting before final action in June. No final vote on the bond sale resolution occurred at this meeting; the presenter asked for board guidance and said the administration would bring a specific resolution in June.
