Somerset board approves long-term capital improvement trust to begin Fund 46 process

The Somerset School District Board of Education voted unanimously on June 15 to create a long-term capital improvement trust that will allow the district to pursue a Fund 46 through the state Department of Public Instruction (DPI).

Administrators presented a comprehensive facility plan and an accompanying spreadsheet that itemized maintenance, life‑cycle replacements and environmental/workplace improvements with low‑ and high‑end cost ranges. The board heard that the plan is meant to help prioritize immediate maintenance needs and longer‑term projects so taxpayers and the district can plan funds strategically.

The board moved and passed a resolution to establish the trust after administrators said creating a Fund 46 would allow the district to submit the plan to DPI and begin the state process for that fund. The administration described the fund as a modest, long‑term tool to address deferred maintenance gradually, not a vehicle to spend funds immediately.

Board members who supported the resolution said the plan provided a practical, prioritized way to address maintenance and avoid higher costs later; no member recorded public opposition during the roll call on the motion. The motion was recorded as passing unanimously.

Administrators said the facility plan and the prioritized spreadsheet will guide next steps, including internal prioritization meetings and submission to DPI. They also noted any project that makes the list will still need budgeting and board approval before work begins.

The board moved on to other agenda items after approving the resolution. The district plans to use the facility plan as a framework for future budget planning and possible referendum discussions.