Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Fisler Arc topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves PJHM contract to build Fissler Arts & Recreation Center after student pleas
Summary
The Fullerton School District board voted 5–0 to approve an architect services contract with PJHM for a proposed Arts & Recreation Center (ARC) at Fissler School after students and parents urged the district to replace an uneven blacktop and add indoor PE and performance space. Trustees directed architects to pursue community input and explore single-stall ADA restrooms.
The Fullerton School District Board voted unanimously to approve a contract with PJHM Architects for design services and to advance the proposed Arts & Recreation Center (ARC) at Fissler School.
Students and parents filled the public-comment portion ahead of the board discussion. Brian Kim, a Fisler student, told trustees, “I hope you would decide to build the arc for our school.” Parent Donna Kim described capacity and safety limits on campus, saying the ARC would provide climate‑controlled space for PE, a safer athletic surface and “a true performing arts space” for students. After public comment, trustees discussed funding sources, design approach and community input.
Board members confirmed the contract will be paid from a combination of bond (Fund 21/Measure N) and other funds as needed until the next bond issuance; staff said temporary use of nonbond dollars would be replaced once the next series of bonds is issued. Trustees discussed two design approaches: adapting an existing ARC plan or doing a ground‑up build, and staff cited a roughly $1–2 million premium for ground‑up construction compared with modifying an existing design. The board directed staff and architects to prioritize community input and to explore including a single‑stall, gender‑neutral ADA restroom in the design to support families and comply with accessibility expectations.
Trustee Cho moved to approve the PJHM contract; the motion was seconded and passed 5–0. President Ruthie Hanchett announced, “That passes 5.” The board recorded the vote and approved the contract to move the project into design and community engagement phases.
