Hornell City School District in New York has put forward a $30.2 million capital project, primarily focusing on Hornell High School, set for a community decision on December 20.
The project includes a major reconstruction of the high school’s gymnasium and essential roof repairs. This proposal follows a recent amendment to the New York State Constitution, which now requires only a simple majority for approval, as opposed to the previously required super-majority of 60%.
The centerpiece of this ambitious project is the rebuilding of the high school’s A gymnasium, transforming it into a larger competition space with enhanced features such as a new student fitness center and an elevated walking track accessible to the community.
Financially, the project is structured to avoid any increase in local tax rates. The funding strategy includes utilizing approximately $12 million from the existing capital reserve fund and raising up to $18.14 million through bond sales. Remarkably, the state of New York is expected to reimburse between 95 to 98 percent of eligible construction costs, potentially contributing up to $18 million towards the project.
This new approach, buoyed by the recent state constitutional amendment, aims to level the playing field for small city school districts like Hornell in securing funding for essential infrastructure improvements.
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