Morristown Central School District residents voted yes to a $16.9M Capital Improvement Project on Tuesday, with 144 votes in favor and 41 votes against.
The project, which will begin construction in 2025, will be funded primarily through state aid with a reimbursement rate of 79.9%. The district will contribute $3.5 million in reserve funds, which will offset the local tax impact. The remaining $28,118 will be levied to taxpayers, resulting in a minimal increase to local taxes estimated at $0.095 per $1,000 of home value.
“The passing of this capital project is a testament to our community's unwavering commitment to the future of education,” said superintendent, Staci Vaughn. “Thank you for your steadfast support in shaping brighter tomorrows for our students.”
The scope of the capital improvement project was determined following a recent Building Conditions survey, and will focus on several areas of improvement including building infrastructure, space adequacy, and safety & security.
In the area of building infrastructure, the project will include roof replacements, HVAC enhancements, parking lot improvements, masonry restoration, and site drainage maintenance at the bus garage.
Space adequacy improvements will include the renovation and expansion of the STEM classroom into a STEM suite, the addition of a choral classroom and dedicated performance stage, the expansion of the fitness center, allowing for community access, and the full reconstruction of the kitchen and cafeteria spaces.
Lastly, improvements addressing safety and security needs in the district will include door and lock replacements, the installation of individual restrooms in the elementary wing, the expansion of the nurse’s office, replacement of seating in the gymnasium, and controlled exterior access to bathroom facilities.
Morristown Central School will share project timeline information as well as updates as the project progresses at https://www.greenrockets.org/apps/pages/Capital_Project_2024