The Newfields School Board held a public hearing on January 8, 2025, to discuss the proposed bond for infrastructure improvements, including significant paving projects. A key concern raised during the meeting was the environmental impact of increasing impervious surfaces at the school site.

One attendee expressed appreciation for the board's efforts but voiced strong concerns about the potential stormwater issues resulting from the planned paving. The speaker highlighted that doubling the impervious surface could exacerbate stormwater management challenges, despite the board's plans to install a stormwater wall beneath the parking lot to mitigate these issues.

The discussion also touched on alternative solutions, such as using gravel instead of asphalt for the parking lot. The attendee argued that gravel would not only be more cost-effective but would also alleviate stormwater concerns associated with impervious surfaces.

The board's consideration of these environmental impacts and alternative materials will be crucial as they move forward with the bond proposal. The meeting underscored the importance of balancing infrastructure development with sustainable practices in the Newfields School District.