The Community School District Board of Trustees on June 12 continued plans for priority repairs to both Boothbay region schools. The board discussed lending options for the $1.6 million bond approved earlier this year and cost estimates for the work it will pay for.  

Alternative Organizational Structure 98 Superintendent Robert Kahler provided several bond options. He said two local banks quoted 10- or 20-year loans with up to 6.85% interest, and Maine Municipal Bond Bank could provide a 15-year loan with up to 4.2% interest. Alternatively, he reported a private bond option for a 15–20-year loan with 3.2% to 4.07% interest; however, it would require the FY24 audit in hand; it is not finished.   

Board members discussed benefits and drawbacks of a shorter loan with steeper payments versus a longer loan, which would cost more overall. They did not make a decision but asked if the bond bank was able to provide a 10-year loan. 

In addition, Facilities Director David Benner reported around $1,036,000 in anticipated bond expenses so far. At the elementary school, work included parapet repairs and replacing two freezers and a cooler. At the high school, projects included roof repairs, replacing gym windows, replacing door hardware, and security film treatment for glass. The district is also looking into updating heating and ventilation controls at both schools. 

According to Benner, the food storage work is anticipated to begin soonest, with removal of the current units at the end of the month. He said, depending on contractors, the parapet work could begin as soon as November.  

Board members raised concerns about the timing of the roof repairs in relation to potential snow accumulation. Benner said snow removal would likely cost $75 an hour per person with the preferred company. However, the board said local contractors would be ideal for the removal if they have appropriate workers' compensation and other protections.  

Benner also said sprinkler systems at the high school need to be repaired, which will cost around $10,000. However, those expenses will not be part of the bond.  

In other financial news, Kahler said the district’s latest projections show the school year will end with a surplus. He said they should not realize an anticipated $100,000 deficit, which was the hope when a budget freeze was implemented earlier this year.