As we approach the November 4th election, we want to share why the school board is asking for a focused $37 million bond issue to construct a new primary building for grades PK-2 and retire the current building. Our current primary building has served its purpose over the years, faithfully educating generations of young learners. However, after investing over $520,000 in major repairs since 2021 alone, including boilers, roofs, and flooring, we've reached a critical decision point. The building faces escalating maintenance costs and infrastructure challenges that no amount of ongoing repairs can fully address.
We've listened carefully to our community's feedback from last year's proposal. This revised plan represents a 32% tax rate reduction from that proposed in November 2024. The community feedback directed that we focus exclusively on our most pressing need which is for our youngest students.
We thoroughly explored renovation as an alternative, and multiple architectural firms estimate it would cost at least $29 million to bring the existing building up to modern standards, including school safety, ADA compliance, new HVAC, electrical and fire systems, asbestos abatement, and replacing doors, windows, ceilings, and flooring. For just $8 million more, we can provide a brand new, purpose-built facility connected directly to our elementary building. The plan contemplates shared spaces that maximize efficiency and a design that will serve our community for decades to come.
The tax impact of this proposal is $1.93 per thousand dollars of assessed value. For context, the owner of a $300,000 home, the average valuation in our district, would pay $21.02 per month, roughly equivalent to the cost of 7.5 gallons of gas. We recognize this is a significant decision, and we don't ask lightly. However, we believe this thoughtful investment strikes the right balance between addressing critical facility needs and respecting taxpayer impact.
We’d also like to tell you what this bond issue is NOT about. It is NOT about sports. The East Campus project was completed to make room for the new primary building, and it was done without asking taxpayers for money. It is NOT about resident or open enrollment numbers. The bond issue IS about an aging facility. Regardless of enrollment numbers, the primary building was constructed in 1959 and has increasing maintenance issues.
We have been open and transparent throughout the process. Documents related to costs are posted on the district website. Public meetings have been held. A variety of media has been used to communicate including mailers, social media and email. Mr. Janzen has answered questions, engaged with citizens on social media and called citizens with concerns.
Our youngest students which attend our primary building deserve a safe, modern learning environment that supports their educational growth and development. The new primary building will feature a secure entrance, full ADA compliance, contemporary safety features, and purpose-designed spaces that reflect current best practices. We encourage all community members to visit our website (go to sblschools.com then click on District, Facility Planning and 2025 Bond) for detailed information about the project, including architectural concepts and a financial breakdown. Feel free to reach out with questions.
Remember to vote on November 4th.