News has come out that the Stow-Munroe Falls School District is building a new Field House. There has been a lot of speculation about the new building, and this guide is meant to give you all the important details.
Where Did the Funding Come From?
In 2016, the Permanent Improvement (PI) Levy was passed. It generates approximately $2.4 million a year and after paying debts and leases, about $2 million a year is left to use. Funds from the levy are being used to build the Field House. There are no general funds being used toward this project. There are also some partnerships with businesses and industries to help grow its size and use and to help replace some of the PI funds being used.
What About Other Building Needs?
There is still money left in the PI budget each year to address the needs of the school buildings. At this time, there is not a focus on hugely expensive repairs and upgrades to the school buildings because the schools will be going for a Master Facilities Bond Issue in a year to help address those concerns. The district does not want to throw money at problems at buildings that could no longer be in use in five years.
Why All the Focus on Athletics?
This Field House isn't just focused on athletics. It will also be used for community programs and gatherings, including uses for the Seniors in our community. There is even a wing that is dedicated completely to our community with programs addressing food insecurity, mental health issues, health care, and other programs. In addition to this, $150,000 is going toward a new practice field and tower for the band in front of the high school. The goal of the Field House is to make a significant impact on our community. The idea is that it will bring the community together in one area.
What Are the Details on the Field House?
The Field House will be 26,500 square feet. It will be located above the high school parking lot at the top of the circle drive. It will contain an all-purpose space that all 28 of Stow's athletic teams can use for training. There will also be a weight room, community spaces, and a small kitchen attached to the community rooms.
What Is the Total Cost?
Including the new band practice field, the project will cost approximately $5.8 million. This is being covered by various loans and frugal spending over the last few years.
Is the New Levy Passed Part of This Project?
The Fall 2022 levy is only an operational levy. Operational levies allow the district to operate the buildings on a daily basis, such as utilities, staffing, books, supplies, technology, etc. The Spring 2023 levy was just a renewal of a previous 10-year operational levy.
What's the Timeline for This Project?
The front yard of the high school has already been regraded and that will be where the new band practice field will be located. On the east side of the high school, the previous band practice field was fenced off and construction is set to start July 2023 on the new Field House. The hope is that it will be complete by mid-April to early-May 2024.
Comments / 0