The Brookesmith Independent School District held a meeting Wednesday night for citizens and taxpayers of the District to discuss options for improvements to District campus, facilities, and technology. Approximately 35 persons attended and participated in the meeting of almost two hours.
Superintendent Steve Mickelson led the meeting by saying “the endgame here is to best serve our kids.” The discussion was led by John Blackburn of Live Oak Public Finance LLC and Robb Sidebottom of Gallagher Construction Services. Among the various items considered were new buses, repairs to the gymnasium, and an upgraded Ag Shop. But the items receiving the most support from the group were (in order):
(1) Renovations, repairs, and upgrades to current facilities and technology. Included in this are new windows in the High School, new HVAC units to replace those nearing their end of service life (8 units), remodeled and improved restrooms, upgraded computer servers and audio/video classroom equipment, paved parking lots, outdoor lighting, and covered walkways.
(2) An improved athletic track
(3) A remodeled and improved Cafetorium
A proposed new football stadium at a new site received little support.
The spark for the new spending is the expected revenues from the IP Radian Solar farm, now under construction in southwest Brown County. Mickelson said the District expects to receive approximately $2 million from the solar project in January 2023, as well as about $50,000 a year, for 15 years. Another solar project called Mustang Mountaineer has also been proposed, but is not certain yet. If it does materialize, Brookesmith ISD could receive another $1.5 million (approximately) plus $50,000 per year, for 15 years.
To pay for all the desired improvements, a bond issue might be required, which would increase taxes for property owners in the District. If done now, however, the solar projects could pay for as much as 38% (approximately) of the bonds.
Blackburn and Sidebottom will develop construction cost estimates and financing options, and report back to the District at a future meeting.
The Brookesmith ISD has 144 students enrolled at the Brookesmith campus, plus approximately 50 students enrolled in campuses in Houston.