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Watervliet City School District voters approved a $28.6 million capital improvement project on Tuesday (December 9). The project passed with a 142 to 90 vote, allowing the district to proceed with significant upgrades to its educational facilities without raising taxes for residents.
The approved project focuses on enhancing the elementary school, junior/senior high school, and the bus garage. Planned improvements include constructing new classrooms, upgrading electrical and mechanical systems, and adding electric vehicle charging stations for new buses. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Donald Stevens expressed gratitude for the community's support, stating that the project will enhance learning spaces, improve safety and security, and increase energy efficiency.
Despite the success of the main proposal, a second proposition to purchase land adjacent to the junior/senior high school for a new bus garage or additional parking was rejected by voters, with a 100 to 133 vote.
The project will be funded through state aid and the district's reserve fund, ensuring no additional cost to city taxpayers. Dr. Stevens emphasized that the project is an investment in the community's future, aiming to provide a safer and more efficient learning environment for students and staff.
According to NEWS10 ABC, the improvements are slated to begin soon, with a focus on modernizing and securing the facilities to meet the needs of current and future students.