The Croton-Harmon School District will conduct a community vote on Jan. 23, 2014 to request approval to use up to $4 million of existing monies in the district’s capital reserve fund to complete a series of projects in the district. The projects will upgrade major building systems, improve safety and security, and, in some cases, enhance instruction. Since the funds have already been allocated to the capital reserves, if approved, the initiative will not create new taxes. The vote will take place at the Croton-Harmon High School gymnasium between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. The district would use the approved monies to fund the following projects:
All Schools:
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• Vestibule reconfiguration (for security)
• Add computer network and public address systems to emergency backup generators to ensure continuity in the event of an emergency
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• Hardware installation (intruder locks) on classroom doors
Projects at Various Schools/Facilities:
• HVAC system upgrades (Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary School)
• Plumbing upgrades (Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle School)
• Outside lighting (CET and PVC)
• Public address system upgrades (Croton-Harmon High School, CET and PVC)
• Restroom renovation (PVC and CHHS)
• Video production room creation (CHHS)
• Auditorium backstage renovation (CHHS)
• Spencer Field drainage repairs (replace old rusted pipes)
• Community room air conditioning (CHHS)
• Storage space creation to move Buildings and Grounds Dept. equipment away from CET
The projects are eligible for state building aid, which can offset the cost by as much as 21 percent. Since voters approved the creation of a capital reserve, the district has been able to complete approximately $7 million in building improvements, such as roof replacements and bus loop reconfigurations, without creating new taxes, saving about $1.5 million in interest costs that would otherwise be incurred had these projects been financed through bonding.
“Much like with past capital reserve initiatives, these projects will not create new taxes or debt which would be the case if they were to be bonded or supported in the annual school budget,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edward R. Fuhrman, Jr. “The capital reserve is a wise and cost-effective way to maintain and improve our facilities – meeting the new demands for instruction, efficiency, safety and security.”
