Thursday, Dec. 17, is an important date for the Oyster Bay-East Norwich school district. It is the day that the public will have an opportunity to vote on a proposed capital project bond referendum. The bond referendum, including the two separate propositions for voter approval, were discussed at Tuesday night’s school board meeting.
“An approved Proposition 1 will enable the district to redesign and expand the Oyster Bay High School fine and performing arts wing, regain much-needed instructional space at the high school and complete the installation of air conditioning in the high school auditorium,” said School Superintendent Dr. Laura Seinfeld. “An approved Proposition 2 will enable the district to implement additional safety and security measures districtwide.”
Under Proposition 1, the scope of work will include the redesign and expansion of the music and art wing, the relocation of all art classes to one area of the high school as well as the renovation of three classrooms including the digital art room. Air conditioning units in the school as well as an update to the sound recording studios will also be covered under the bond.
Proposition 2, at a cost of $826,000, would cover additional safety and security measures districtwide for the Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School, the James H. Vernon School and the high school. Measures would include reconstruction of enclosed main entrance vestibules, an upgraded security card reader system for entry access, an installed visitor management system and additional security cameras.
If voters approve the bond, New York State Building Aid will pay for 10 percent of the majority of the cost of the proposed scope of work. An approved bond will also enable the district to take advantage of historically low interest rates.
“An approved bond will benefit all students and community residents who use district facilities and preserve taxpayers’ investment in district facilities,” said Seinfeld. “It will support the district’s commitment to providing a well rounded quality education that includes an appreciation of the arts in a safe and secure environment.”
The bond vote will take place on Thursday, Dec. 17, at the high school from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
