CARMEL – Residents in the Carmel School District are going to the polls today (Tuesday) to decide the fate of a capital projects proposition totaling $25.4 million. The special referendum follows the defeat of a larger capital project proposal last December.
Critical infrastructure issues along with library improvements at the George Fischer Middle School, Americans with Disabilities accessibility compliance and the replacement of an aging transportation facility comprise the referendum.
Superintendent Andy Irvin said the total cost to taxpayers “at the peak of the bond – 2021 to 2027 – will be $6.33 per year should the proposition be approved.
“We have worked to minimize the effect on taxpayers,” Irvin said. “Timing of construction has been designed to coincide with the expiration of old debt payments. A substantial portion of the proposal is eligible for New York State building aid at the district’s current rate of 60 percent. Carmel will receive just under $21 million in aid.”
The proposition includes roof replacements in all five of the district’s school buildings in addition to making identified areas in each school such as stages accessible to provide equal opportunities for all as well as library improvements at the middle school. The current library is original to the building that opened in 1970.
The referendum also asks for public support to purchase land and construct a new transportation facility that can house 120-plus vehicles while being compliant with the New York State DEC.
Voting is taking place until 9 o’clock this evening at the district’s three polling places: Carmel High School, Matthew Paterson Elementary School and the Kent Schools complex.
