GRAY – Voters on Tuesday approved a $10.2 million bond package to renovate and fix five SAD 15 schools. The total vote in Gray and New Gloucester was 2,791 to 1,191.
In New Gloucester, a high voter turnout approved the project 1,132 to 537.
And in Gray, voters OK’d the bond 1,659 to 654.
“It is so encouraging that people are voting and exercising their choice,” said school board member Sharon Vandermay of New Gloucester while waiting for the final tally.
“I’m thrilled,” said Alan Rich of New Gloucester, the board’s chairman. “Voters in favor gave us a resounding message. Despite difficult economic times, voters recognized it was time to do something now.”
The school board will ratify the vote on Wednesday.
The district’s five schools will all benefit from projects that are expected to take 18 months to complete, Rich said.
Portland Design Team has been engaged to complete the final plans and draw up bid specifications for the renovations and additions and new construction.
Most of the projects center on health and safety needs and improving instructional space for students. Projects will upgrade the district’s schools to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Of the $10.2 million total, $2.3 million has been approved through outright grants from the state. And $1.8 million will be paid back in 10 years interest-free under the administration of the Revolving Renovation Fund through Maine’s Department of Education and the Bureau of General Services.
Of the $10.2 million total, Gray and New Gloucester taxpayers will pay back $6 million in a 20-year note.
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