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Bond Advisory Committee (BAC) Commences Work with First Meeting

Three group photos from the September 12 Bond Advisory Committee Meeting

Last Thursday, the Bond Advisory Committee (BAC) convened for its first meeting at the Karshner Museum, marking the beginning of an important process that will shape the future of our schools. The BAC has been entrusted with a critical task: to provide a comprehensive recommendation to the superintendent and the school board regarding a bond scope and financing plan. This recommendation will play a crucial role in determining the timing of a potential bond issue election, which is tentatively planned for February 11, 2025. A bond advisory School Board Study Session is scheduled for November 15, with the School Board taking final action on the recommendation on November 18, 2024.

Introducing the Core Membership

The BAC is composed of a diverse and dedicated group of individuals who bring a wealth of experience and perspective to the table. The core membership includes:

  • More than twenty community members from regions 1, 2, and 3, provide insights into the specific needs of different regional school community
  • Three construction industry partners who contribute their expertise on project feasibility, costs, and best practices.
  • Three high school students (Grades 10-12) from regions 1, 2, and 3 brought a student perspective to the discussions.
  • Three school principals (one each from Elementary, Junior High, and High School levels) provide insights into the specific needs of different educational levels.
  • Two Puyallup PTA Council representatives who advocate for parent and community involvement in school decisions.
  • Two Puyallup Education Association representatives who represent the interests of district educators.
  • Ex-officio members include PSD’s Assistant Superintendent of Operations and School Support, six PSD directors, a Fine Arts Teacher, and the Assistant Director of Transportation, who bring additional expertise and oversight.
“We're excited to have so many engaged community members joining us to tackle these complex funding decisions,” said Brady Martin, Director of Capital Projects. “The work of this committee is critical for ensuring that we can meet the needs of every student in a rapidly growing district.”
 
 
Bond Advisory Committee member shares thoughts during a group discussion
 

Key Objectives and Tasks

The BAC’s work over the next two and a half months will involve several key objectives and tasks, including:

  • Defining the Project Scope: The committee will assess the needs for high schools (Rogers, Emerald Ridge, Puyallup, and Walker), junior high schools (Glacier View), and elementary schools (New Elementary #24, Mt. View, Spinning, and Waller Road). This includes evaluating the need for growth, remodels, replacements, and additions.
  • Exploring State Match Funding: The committee will identify projects that could benefit from state match funding, which provides partial funding for eligible projects based on criteria like age, condition, and demonstrated need.
  • Integrating Life Cycle Maintenance: The committee will consider the 2024 Capital Levy and its implications for ongoing maintenance and future projects.
  • Community Engagement: A key component of the BAC’s work will be gathering public input through forums and surveys to ensure that community voices are heard and considered.
  • Reviewing Planning Documents: The BAC will review various documents, including the 2021 Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee Long Range Plan, the Capital Facilities Plan, and the School Capacity and Utilization Taskforce Interim Recommendations. This review will inform their recommendations and help prioritize projects.
Brian presents the election results map on a large screen
The Role of Bonds in School Improvement

Public school bonds are essential for addressing a range of issues, including:

  • Aging Facilities: Many of our schools have outdated infrastructure that requires modernization to meet current standards and support effective teaching and learning.
  • Space and Safety: Overcrowded classrooms and communal areas can hinder safety and impact the educational environment. Bonds can fund renovations that address these issues, ensuring safer and more functional spaces.
  • New Schools and Major Renovations: Bonds can support the construction of new schools and major renovations to existing ones, helping to accommodate growth and improve educational facilities.
  • Educational Environment: As education evolves, so do the needs of our learning environments. Bonds help create flexible, modern spaces that support collaborative and inquiry-based teaching methods.

All voter-approved 2015 bond projects, including Dessie Evans, Shaw Road, Hunt, Firgrove, Sunrise, and Northwood Elementary Schools, were completed on time and under budget. Through effective management, approximately $28 million was saved, and $97.2 million in state match funds were earned, which allowed for reinvestment in additional schools like Ballou, Ferrucci, Stahl Junior Highs, and the Kessler Center for Puyallup Digital Learning.

Learn more about our 2015 bond projects on our website at 2015 Voter-approved Bond Projects - Puyallup School District (puyallupsd.org) 

Planning for Future Success

Historically, February elections have been the most favorable for school bonds, with a 48% success rate compared to other months. However, since the pandemic, voter approval rates have dropped dramatically, with the statewide average currently around 18.4%. The BAC’s recommendation will include insights from this historical data and feedback from the community to navigate the complexities of the upcoming bond decision.

Washington K12 Bond Election Results
 
Washington K12 Bond Election Results

In 2021, the Citizens Facilities Advisory Committee (CFAC) identified a short list of district-wide needs totaling over $1 billion. This spring, that list expanded when the School Capacity and Utilization Taskforce (SCUT) identified additional building needs in North Hill to address the rapid growth in student populations. While we acknowledge that fully funding all these identified projects would place a significant financial burden on taxpayers, we are committed to finding a balanced solution. The community members serving on the Bond Advisory Committee will carefully evaluate every proposed project, prioritizing those that will have the most long-term benefits for students. Their role is not only to ensure the district addresses the critical infrastructure needs but also to recommend a bond package that is both fiscally responsible and will benefit students and communities throughout the district. By considering factors such as the urgency of needs, potential state match funds, and the impact on the quality of education, the committee will work to propose a plan that reflects the best interests of students while remaining sensitive to the financial realities of our community.

Slide 28, Estimated project costs

On Thursday night, committee members reviewed several bond scenarios aimed at maintaining the voter-approved tax rate of $4.14 per $1,000 of assessed value for the 2024 Capital Levy. This consistent rate would sustain the bond over its 21-year duration, enabling the district to address key priorities without raising taxes. Additionally, potential state matching funds, determined by building eligibility, could further boost funding for these projects.

Committee members raised insightful questions, such as whether to incorporate levy funds into the bond or increase the tax rate to secure funding exclusively for new construction. This is one of many critical decisions the committee will consider over the next five meetings as they strive to balance community needs with fiscal responsibility.

The Importance of Community Involvement

The bond process is a collaborative effort that relies heavily on community support and engagement. The BAC’s recommendations will reflect a thorough consideration of public feedback, economic factors, and the district’s needs. The Puyallup School District is deeply grateful to the BAC members for their commitment and hard work. Their dedication will be instrumental in addressing the district’s most pressing needs and ensuring that our schools continue to provide a high-quality educational experience for all students.

We encourage all community members to stay informed and participate in the upcoming public forums and surveys. Your input is vital in shaping the future of our schools and ensuring that we make informed decisions that benefit our students and the community.

For more information about the BAC and upcoming meetings, please visit our website http://www.puyallupSD.org/BAC

Share your thoughts! We have added a quick survey to gather your feedback as we move through this process. https://forms.office.com/r/97dd9RjAr9

Together, we can continue to support and enhance the educational experience for every student in the Puyallup School District.


 

More school construction news . . .