OISD Trustees approve $5.5 bond

OLNEY— A vote whether to fund millions in high school renovations will appear on the May ballot following a vote by the Olney Independent School District Board of Trustees.

The board unanimously approved placing a $5.5 million bond issue on the May ballot that, if approved, would fund renovations to the high school, as well as several other potential projects should OISD have the available funds once construction wraps.

During previous meetings, OISD Superintendent Greg Roach said it has always been the trustees' goal to present a bond plan to voters that would not increase the tax burden. The bond issue approved by the board Monday allows it to pursue the maximum amount possible without needing to raise property taxes.

If approved in May, the school board will then decide whether to pursue one of two plans for renovation of the high school. Both plans seek to maximize space within the campus and improving sight lines for security.

The more expensive plan would run the district an estimated $4.3 million, which comes with a variety of needs outlined in a recent facilities study. The board could also choose the more cost prohibitive plan, which is estimated at $3.8 million, but would have the ability to add other additions and amenities a-la-cart. 

Board members have bandied the idea of using the bond to fund improvements to the baseball and softball complex, but Board Member Jake Bailey said school renovations are top priority.

“We have to make it real clear that everything is predicated on the high school renovation,” Bailey said.