Committee models debt-service scenarios: consolidated options reduce long‑term operational costs, repairs-only path increases worst‑year debt

The committee presented modeled debt-service schedules that weigh projected operational savings against bond payments. Using conservative assumptions, the financial adviser stretched debt to show the worst-year impact: for the new‑school/new‑site option the model shows a worst‑year bond payment of roughly $900,000; the building would be operational around 2030 under that scenario.

Chair Jim Marshall and consultants said consolidating two schools into one can create recurring operational savings. Using current enrollment (379 students), they estimated staffing savings approaching $700,000 annually; at a projected maximum enrollment that figure falls to about $374,000. By contrast, if voters reject a consolidated project and the district follows a phased repair path, the worst modeled debt servicing is about $3,000,000 in its peak year (modeled for 2034). "From a staffing perspective can offer operational savings approaching $700,000," Marshall said during the meeting.

The committee stressed the assumptions are conservative—estimating lower reimbursement rates and carrying contingencies—and that actual outcomes will depend on final design, eligibility and how much contingency is expended.