On Tuesday, December 6, 2022, Monroe-Woodbury Central School District residents will be asked to vote on a proposed $115 million capital improvement program, which would address long overdue major system improvements and upgrades in our schools. The goal of this multi-year project is to preserve our facilities and to ensure safe, comfortable educational environments for students, staff and visitors for years to come.
If approved by Monroe-Woodbury voters, the $115 million project would replace or upgrade outdated systems (e.g., heat, electric, fire alarms, carbon monoxide monitoring systems), replace or repair school roofs, add security vestibules, refurbish classrooms, create new outdoor learning spaces and make other critical infrastructure improvements. Six buildings would receive new boilers; three of these buildings would switch from traditional steam heating systems to a highly efficient hydronic (hot water) system to maximize energy savings and efficiencies.
In addition, the proposed project would also include construction of a building to house accessible public restrooms, equipment storage and concessions at the main athletic field complex. In addition, the tennis court, which is beyond repair, would be replaced. Visit the Proposed Capital Program page to learn more about the project scope by building.
In order to minimize the impact on taxpayers, funding for the program would come from multiple sources: existing and future capital reserve funds (savings); short-term borrowing and long-term borrowing; existing debt service fund reserves (remaining from prior projects); retirement and replacement of existing debt; and building aid.
In the first year, the budget increase is estimated at $197,000, gradually increasing as the project evolves and is phased in fully. The average annual cost for the duration of the project is $657,800 for 20 years. In the current budget, this expense represents approximately 0.33 percent, or one third-of one percent, of the total budget, or 0.51 percent, or one-half of one percent, of the tax levy. The district estimates the fully phased-in program will cost an additional $38.00 annually for a property with a market value of approximately $350,000.
These cost increases would be offset by improved reliability, maximized energy savings and lower maintenance costs. In short, we would be investing in the future of our students, our school district and our community.
For specifics about the proposed project and additional financial information, please visit the Proposed Capital Program page on the district website. An informational brochure will be mailed to all resident households in mid-November.
Residents are encouraged to submit questions via the online question submission form. Questions will be answered during an upcoming Crusader Chat on Thursday, December 1, in the MWHS auditorium at 7 p.m. All members of the Monroe-Woodbury community are invited to attend. The Chat will also be offered via live feed at https://events.locallive.tv/events/93047.