Norwalk school district starts planning bond spending

NORWALK – The Board of Education, during a study session on Jan. 15, directed staff to prepare three to four proposals that package potential projects with the District’s first Measure G bond issuance this summer, which will range between $52 million and $70 million. The public meeting provided board members with an overview of the District’s $600 million Facilities Master Plan, a long-range planning tool outlining facilities needs, the required next steps in regard to state laws, bond financing and a list of potential first projects. Staff will provide the detailed proposals at a public study session Feb. 2.

“The Facilities Master Plan was never meant to prioritize projects, but to simply provide insight into our needs for updating, renovating and revitalizing our facilities,” said NLMUSD Interim Superintendent Ginger Shattuck. “When we return for the study session next month, we’ll provide potential options and plans for the first round of projects. The Board of Education will make the ultimate decision on what happens next.”

Voters approved Measure G in November so NLMUSD could renovate, repair and update its schools.

During the Jan. 15 meeting, District staff presented a list of potential first projects that included: security fencing; roof replacement; playfield/playground upgrades; air conditioning systems in school offices and multipurpose buildings; furniture replacement; drought-resistant landscaping; lunch shelters; and digital marquees.

In addition, staff members presented options for construction of high school stadiums and performance/media centers.

Board members asked staff to return with proposals that cluster projects according to the following: projects that will fit within the funding scope for the first issuance; projects that are needed most; projects that logically should happen first to set up for future projects; projects requested by the community and staff; and projects related to technology.

“There are a lot of needs in terms of renovation and new construction at our schools and sites across the District,” said NLMUSD Board of Education President Jesse Urquidi. “Now comes the challenging task of deciding what happens first. At the end of the day, it’s our priority to ensure that we get the most for every dollar so that we can provide students with learning environments that are safe and engaging.”

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Published: Jan. 22, 2015 - Volume 13 - Issue 41