Infrastructure improvements in local schools are set to take center stage as district officials address pressing safety and accessibility concerns. During a recent government meeting, key stakeholders discussed the need for significant upgrades to aging facilities, emphasizing the importance of maintaining operational costs while ensuring a conducive learning environment for students.

Superintendent Dr. Hazing highlighted the deteriorating conditions of various school facilities, noting issues such as malfunctioning HVAC systems, water damage, and inadequate drainage in parking lots. He expressed surprise at the state of the infrastructure, which he described as a result of years of neglect despite ongoing maintenance efforts. \"It's not for lack of maintenance,\" he stated, pointing out that many systems have simply aged out and require replacement.

The district is proposing a single ballot question this year, with a levy set at one dollar, a significant reduction from last year's $3.60. This streamlined approach aims to secure funding for necessary repairs and improvements. Dr. Hazing underscored the urgency of addressing these issues, particularly in light of the district's growth and the influx of new housing developments in the area. He warned against the pitfalls of failing to plan for expansion, recalling instances where districts resorted to using temporary trailers for classrooms, which no longer meet modern security standards.

To assess the extent of the required improvements, the district has engaged Shive Hattery for a comprehensive facilities assessment. The findings will guide future decisions on infrastructure investments, ensuring that the district can adequately support its growing student population while enhancing safety and accessibility across all campuses.