GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A survey on facility needs for the Green Bay Area Public School District in advance of a potential referendum shows general support for a variety of possible projects.
The district is considering a November referendum on facility needs, saying there would not be a tax increase because the new borrowing would replace retiring debt.
A project list will be submitted to the school board for review at its May 23 meeting.
More than 3,400 responses were submitted, according to the report by the Donavan Group, the consulting firm hired by the district.
Among the results:
- Overall, 82% strongly agree or agree they would support a referendum to address deferred and delayed maintenance needs.
- Nearly 83% strongly agree or agree they would supports a referendum that included projects to improve spaces in secondary schools that include renovations to classrooms, music rooms, auditoriums, etc. Upgrades could include seating, lighting, sound systems, etc.
- Slightly more than 70% strongly agree or agree they would support a referendum that included projects to improve locker rooms, weight rooms, concession stands, tennis courts, track and baseball/softball fields, etc. Upgrades could include bleachers, lighting, sound systems, etc.
- About 68% strongly agree or agree they would support a referendum that adds turf fields to Preble and West high schools to provide equity and greater access to the fields for students, athletes and community organizations. (East & Southwest already have turf football/soccer fields, but Preble & West do not).
- About 74% strongly agree or agree they would support a referendum that upgraded/replaced older playground equipment.
- About 75% strongly agree or agree they would support a referendum that upgraded/replaced older playground equipment that is located in a city park, which serves as playground equipment for an elementary or K-8 school.
The district has not released costs associated with any particular project, nor the possible impact on the tax levy, but addressed the net effect of the cost in this way on the survey:
“The District’s strong fiscal management has placed it in a position where the 2017 referendum will be paid off this year, allowing the District to once again make needed renovations and improvements to the facilities with no tax impact to residents, with voter approval,” the survey states. (Bolded words in the original.)
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