The Lincoln County School District’s board has directed staff to begin studying its facilities to evaluate the potential for a bond election when the current $63 million bond expires in June 2026.
The board voted unanimously Tuesday night during its meeting to direct Superintendent Majalise Tolan and staff to begin the facilities study.
Voters approved the current bond in May 2011 that among other things moved Waldport Middle/High School out of that city’s tsunami zone, built or remodeled classrooms at high schools in Newport and Toledo and three elementary schools, built year-round athletic fields at the four high schools, upgraded heating/ventilation, plumbing and electrical systems and made disability and safety improvements at all the district’s schools.
The current bond carries a tax rate of 65 cents per $1,000 assessed property value, or $195 per year for property assessed at $300,000. Money from bond measures cannot be used for year-to-year operating costs, but only for buildings and some equipment.
According to the board’s resolution, key areas of investigation include:
- A comprehensive population study to forecast future education needs and infrastructure requirements;
- An assessment of facility needs, encompassing the requirement for new or replacement structures, long-term maintenance, and safety enhancements;
- A review of the construction manager/general contractor processes used in the 2011 bond to promote local employment and ensure the efficient use of resources;
- Engaging with staff, students, and the community through surveys to gather perspectives on facility priorities;
- Developing a decision-making matrix that outlines timelines and information for the board to consider in deciding on pursuing a replacement bond; and
- Evaluating the district’s capacity to successfully implement the work, should the bond be approved by voters.
