Measure HH update: Buena Vista modernization moves into phased construction planning; parents urge faster action

District facilities staff presented a monthly Measure HH bond update covering multiple campus projects and the program’s next steps.

Jessica Kimbell, director of facilities planning and construction management, outlined Buena Vista’s phased approach: interim modular housing for swing space, interior refresh (paint, flooring, casework), exterior work, new HVAC/air conditioning units and a proposed new STEAM lab. Kimbell said the project is at construction documents stage, will require Division of State Architect (DSA) plan approval and will be bid in phases. "We're looking at a multiphased approach to this project," she said, adding that current planning estimates put the approved phased project roughly at $15 million after escalation from earlier master‑plan figures.

Public commenter Nikki Ren, a Jefferson Elementary teacher and Buena Vista parent, said she was grateful to see progress but urged the board to continue pushing for urgency and equitable facilities across the district. "BV Dolphins deserve this," she said, and asked how bond funds allocated to older campuses compare with funds for newer sites.

Trustees and staff discussed access, phasing and temporary classroom locations. Kimbell described site phasing intended to limit disruption — interim portables would house displaced classrooms while work proceeds — and said the goal is to maintain a single point of entry and coordination with school administration on access during construction.

The Measure HH financial and performance audit presented later in the meeting reported no findings on bond expenditures, and trustees accepted that audit unanimously.