Long Beach school district's $89.7 million bond was approved by a vote of 727 to 131.
The $87,697,655 capital projects bond proposition aims to upgrade academic spaces, modernize athletic and community facilities and improve building infrastructure. If passed, the bond financing will not result in additional taxes for the community, as new debt service would replace expiring debt that supported the prior large-scale capital plan, approved by voters in 2009.
Among the key projects outlined is the installation of heating, mechanical ventilation and air conditioning systems in all district buildings. Projects also include playground renovations or additions at each of the four elementary schools, upgrades to middle and high school fields and locker rooms, and new instructional spaces at the high school, including a new wrestling room, marine science lab and technology, carpentry and robotics classrooms.
In addition, the plan sets aside funding for infrastructure maintenance at the Long Beach Public Library, which is a district-owned building, including the replacing the roof.
The district is expected to receive 42.4 percent reimbursement in state building aid for every eligible dollar spent. This will help offset the cost of the project while ensuring long-term investment in the district’s infrastructure.
“This plan represents a thoughtful, fiscally responsible approach to addressing the needs of our schools and community spaces,” Superintendent Jennifer Gallagher said in a statement. “By reinvesting in our facilities now, we are ensuring that current and future students benefit from comfortable, modern learning environments.”
For information on voting, as well as a complete listing of projects proposed through the referendum, go to district’s website, LBeach.org.
Expanded story in this week's Herald.
