Why Now?
Building for Generations.
Facilities have been discussed in our school district for a long time, and the issues are not going away.
The GFW School Board approved resolutions to implement a $43 million capital improvement plan that would not address all district needs, but instead develop a timeline of phased projects that could maintain current facilities while the district and community work together to approve a long range plan. This plan does not require voter approval and will result in a tax increase in the district. GFW Public Schools will still need to propose a future ballot question to address facilities which will result in a further tax increase and face rising construction costs.
As a more long-term solution, the board also approved two elections to allow voters to consider other options to address facility challenges with proposals to build a new school in one of two possible configurations.
Saving time. Saving money.
Building Bright Futures.
Our facilities are currently safe but approaching critical. A recent facilities assessment found that facility conditions are currently poor and approaching critical at both sites. A status of critical could mean significant potential safety concerns. The cost to fix current facilities is 71.8% of the cost of building a new PreK-12 building. If the cost included addressing educational adequacy issues, it would be more costly to get current facilities up to standards.
By proposing a new facility in April, the district hopes to be in a new building a full year earlier than if they waited until November, while avoiding rising construction costs. If a new facility is approved in April, it would minimize the amount of investment the district would have to dedicate toward existing sites.
Strong Finances. Expanded Programming.
Building a Prepared Workforce.
Our district has seen a lot of great things over the past two years. We have exited Statutory Operating Debt, are strong financially, and have been able to expand programming and options for our students. We aim to have an effective solution that is affordable for our community.
Featured Frequently Asked Question: Why isn’t the operating levy reduction on the April ballot?
The State of Minnesota limits operating levy questions to be considered by voters to November elections unless certain criteria are met. The district is committed to passing the savings of a new single site facility onto taxpayers and is committing now to allowing voters to consider revoking and replacing the operating levy at a lower amount if the single site option moves forward.
