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Tri‑City United trustees split 3–4 after heated debate over up to $14.83M IAQ/facilities bond
Summary
A proposed general obligation facilities/IEQ bond (not to exceed $14.83 million) failed after trustees split 3–4. Supporters said authorizing the intent preserves timing and avoids a tax‑reduction message on preliminary tax statements; opponents wanted additional work sessions to prioritize projects and more time to vet scope and costs.
Trustee Josh Balkey introduced an official‑intent resolution on June 22 to pursue general‑obligation facilities and indoor air quality projects up to $14,830,000 and to bring a formal bond authorization back at a July meeting. Balkey said the resolution would allow the district to move forward without triggering a preliminary tax reduction on residents' statements.
Board discussion focused on process and priorities. Some trustees urged more work sessions so the board could prioritize the 17 items on the proposed list and examine the scope and cost schedule; others warned that delaying a pass could cause a preliminary tax reduction and complicate later action. A number of facilities needs (roofs, HVAC, fire system annunciation and other items) were identified in the discussion but the board did not vote on a narrowed project list at the meeting.
On the roll call the resolution failed 3–4: Cindy and two other trustees (Suzy and Hillary) voted yes; Josh Balkey, Trevor and two other trustees voted no. Because the vote did not pass, the board will not move forward immediately on the bonding authorization; several trustees asked staff to organize additional work sessions to refine priorities, cost estimates and timelines before reconsideration. Administrators noted that, if the board wants to pursue bonding later, it can return with a proposal, but the timing of tax statements and the district’s preferred schedule were central to proponents’ urgency.
Next steps: facilities and finance staff will schedule additional work sessions to refine the project list, prioritization and budget scenarios and report back to the full board; trustees also set a special meeting schedule for other time‑sensitive contract business.
