Current Building Project Information and Status

September 27, 2009

Dear Patrons:

The Stevensville Facility Committee consisting of Kirk Thompson, Gary Burgett, Cathi Cook and Superintendent Kent Kultgen made a recommendation to the full Board to construct a grades 4-8 building, music center, multipurpose room, stage and kitchen. Along with this construction will be the demolition of the Junior High building, Junior High shop and English building and the grades 4-6 building.

There are three major financial advantages for seeking the approval of this bond at this time:

+ The Elementary Music/PE Facility Bonds will be paid off next year.

+ Construction material costs are down, and contractors' bids are very competitive.

+ Quality School Construction Bonds (QSCB)

DA Davidson, the Financial School Bond Advisor Firm, stated the interest rates for QSCB varies, but will likely be 0% or close to it. The QSCB also has a balloon payment method. In other words, instead of paying on the principal and interest on an annual basis, the bond amount will be paid at the end of the 15 year period. The money collected every year will be invested (according to law) and that investment will go towards paying on the principal amount.

Purpose

+ Student Safety

Both of the current buildings are two story structures and have limited fire escapes for the second floor. The Junior High building has two fire escapes for the second story and the 4-6 building has one escape route.

The two masonry buildings are susceptible to seismic activity. Stevensville is in an earthquake zone and if a severe quake should occur, these buildings may not offer the safety needed.

Click here to see photographs showing current condition of the Jr. High and Grades 4-6 buildings

+ Student Access

Neither building has handicap access to the second floor. The Junior High building does have a 'crawler' that will carry a wheel chair to the second floor.

Click here to see photographs showing current condition of the Jr. High and Grades 4-6 buildings

+ Modernize

All buildings proposed to be replaced have major plumbing, electrical and structural problems. They are not energy efficient. Costs to renovate could be several million dollars and the district would still lack appropriate modern classrooms.

Click here to see photographs showing current condition of the Jr. High and Grades 4-6 buildings

This building proposal will provide one story buildings with access for all. Although the plan does not increase the number of existing classrooms, the size and amenities will increase.

The proposed grades 4-8 building allows for future expansion when needed.

There will be community education meetings throughout the month of October, dates and times will be released later. Thank you for your support, it is the intent of the Stevensville Board and administration to provide all the information so you can make an informed decision.

Jacket Fan
Kent Kultgen
Superintendent
Stevensville Schools
777-5481 ext. 136