Highland to host public forum on Capital Project

Posted 9/21/22

Community members who are interested in learning more about the two Highland Central School District Capital Project propositions that will be on the ballot on Tuesday, October 18 are encouraged to …

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Highland to host public forum on Capital Project

Posted

Community members who are interested in learning more about the two Highland Central School District Capital Project propositions that will be on the ballot on Tuesday, October 18 are encouraged to do so during a public information session scheduled for Tuesday, September 27. The meeting will take place at Highland High School, beginning at 6 p.m. The District’s Facilities Committee, architects, and financial planners will be in attendance to answer any questions.

The Capital Project vote will be held in the Highland High School Band Room from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.. The first proposition is a tax-neutral plan for updating aging school infrastructure and replacing end-of-life systems. Proposition 2, which will only be successful if Proposition 1 is also approved, makes improvements to the athletic field and track at Highland High School.

“The tax-neutral proposition is possible through a strategic financial approach that leverages State Aid, the timing of retiring debt, and funds that have been saved in the voter-approved capital reserve,” explained Superintendent of Schools Joel Freer. “This means we can complete $16.9 million of updates without expense increasing the tax levy.”

Work associated with the first proposition addresses multiple antiquated building components throughout the District such as boilers, ventilation, plumbing, electrical capacity, masonry, fire alarms and more.

The second proposition, which calls for $4.6 million worth in improvements to the High School athletic field and track, would enhance programs for student-athletes and Physical Education classes. This proposition is contingent upon the success of Proposition 1. If Proposition 2 is approved, a taxpayer with the Basic STAR Exemption would see an estimated average tax increase of $1 a month per $100,000 of full-value assessment.

More information about the project, including a complete list of the proposed upgrades, can be found by clicking on the Capital Project 2022 quick link athighland-k12.org. Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact Superintendent Freer at (845) 691-1014, or by emailing jfreer@highland-k12.org.