The Mexico Public Schools Board of Education (BOE) will ask voters for borrowing authority for up to $21 million in this April’s election for several projects.
If approved the bonds will …
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The Mexico Public Schools Board of Education (BOE) will ask voters for borrowing authority for up to $21 million in this April’s election for several projects.
If approved the bonds will not increase the district’s tax levy. According to the district’s underwriter, the district could have asked for up to $27 million but that would have required an increase to the bond debt service levy.
Board Member Jessica Ekern pointed out that although $20 million is a big number it has to be spread out between seven buildings and other facilities. Chris Jerden, a consultant who is working with the district on the project, said when the projects are broken out it seems like a lot. Jerden said his work with the facility committee over the last several months whittled the list down to its current form. Jerden also warned that over the next 12 months, figures can also change. He said they’ve tried to build some of those uncertainties into the plan.
“Budgets can fluctuate,” Jerden said. “Once we get into the design and programming we’ll find out things that we either didn’t know about or maybe some things we don’t have to do.”
The project list can be broken down into six categories which include: Playground upgrades at Eugene Field and Hawthorn Elementary Schools and McMillan Early Learning Center. HVAC projects at the Administration Building, Eugene Field, McMillan, the Middle School, and the High School. New flooring at the Administration Building, Eugene Field, the Middle School, and Hart Career Center. Safety and Security upgrades at the High School, the Middle School, and Eugene Field. ADA accessibility projects at the High School and Hart Career Center and Eugene Field. Two roofing projects at the High School and Eugene Field.
Some highlights include a 5,000-square-foot expansion at the Middle School and a complete renovation of the kitchen. The High School will also see a big security project that will include building a new entrance that will move the administrative offices to the front. The current offices would also be renovated. The High School’s performing arts center will get upgrades and the softball field will be converted to artificial turf.
