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Board reviews capital'projects plan and funding options; reserves, bond and $1.34M proposed transfer highlighted
Summary
The board heard an architect'led building-condition review and a staff presentation on capital funding. Officials outlined voter-approved capital funds, reserves (approx. $3.4M and $6.9M), about $7.2M remaining on a prior bond, and proposed a $1.34M transfer to capital in the upcoming budget while noting some priorities may shift after the Westside fire.
The board spent a large portion of its agenda reviewing district facilities and capital priorities. Architect Michael Markham (Mark Design) presented a building'condition survey and toured district roofs, boilers and interiors; he and administrators detailed a program of masonry restoration, boiler replacement, classroom cooling, flooring and lighting upgrades, and repairs to sidewalks and pavement damaged by a harsh winter.
Assistant Superintendent Allison Selentano walked the board through funding streams and tradeoffs. Administration proposed a $1.34 million transfer to capital in the upcoming budget and described existing capital reserves: a closed Capital Reserve 3 (original cap $10 million, balance about $3.4'4M) and an open Capital Reserve 5 (cap $15M, balance about $6.9M), plus roughly $7.2M remaining on prior voter'approved bond proceeds. Officials explained the pros and cons of bonding (front'loading work but adding financing costs) versus using reserves or pay'as'you'go transfers.
Speakers emphasized prioritizing envelope work (masonry and chimneys) and systems that affect operations (boilers and HVAC). The presentation singled out three boilers across district buildings for replacement and noted that some items may be reprioritized after the Westside incident. Administration said some projects could be completed in'house by maintenance staff while larger jobs would require external contractors or a construction manager.
The facilities committee estimated total project needs in the next five years at roughly $50'60 million, excluding some fees and escalation. Board members discussed options for phasing work, creating or using capital reserves, and approaching voters if borrowing becomes necessary. Presenters said specific project timing and funding would be refined once damage assessments and further surveys (including roof analysis) are complete.
The board did not adopt any new borrowing or reallocate funds at this meeting; it discussed options and signaled that budget and project lists may change based on the ongoing Westside assessment and winter-related damages.
