Lynbrook Presents New, Reduced Bond Plan

The Lynbrook Board of Education heard a presentation of a revised bond proposal at its Jan. 11 meeting. Proposed additions and improvements at the high school include modernized science facilities, an upgraded STEM classroom, dedicated classrooms for chorus, band and orchestra, a new classroom for the Career Development Program, a school store used as a working laboratory to provide business experience for students, an innovation classroom and auditorium renovations.

Dr. Paul Lynch, assistant superintendent for finance, operations and information systems, explained that the new overall project is estimated at $33,925,603. The district would use $5 million in existing capital reserve funds, reducing the bond financing to $28,925,603. The cost for the average homeowner is estimated at $168 per year, which is nearly half that of the previous bond proposal. It was important for the district to keep costs low while still providing for the needs expressed by stakeholders.

The proposal also includes upgrading both the North Middle School and South Middle School locker rooms, refurbishing the Atlantic Avenue wrestling room and locker rooms and adding air conditioning in the elementary and middle school gymnasiums.

Dr. Melissa Burak, the district superintendent, explained that after a bond proposal was defeated in March of 2016, the board sought public input through an exit survey conducted on the day of the May 2016 budget vote. Those who voted against the bond stated that the main reason was that it was too expensive, so the district’s key objective in revising it was to reduce its scope, while still providing students with the facilities necessary for a 21st century learning environment.

The high school had the greatest need, therefore instructional space comprised the biggest portion of the proposal. All other schools have been included in this bond in the form of HVAC upgrades and locker room refurbishments. Enlarging and renovating the wrestling room and locker room in the Atlantic Avenue building were additional projects included in the scope of the new proposal.

After hearing comments from the community, the board agreed to continue discussion of the proposal at its February meeting. A copy of the presentation can be accessed at www.lynbrookschools.org under a link titled “Bond Follow Up”. Residents should contact the board at boe@lynbrook.k12.ny.us with any questions or comments in order to receive accurate information.

Photo: Lynbrook School District