Stevenson High School officials planning for $25 million loan
Stevenson High School officials on Monday are expected to approve a $25 million loan for building improvements over the next three years.
The cash would pay for $11.7 million in improvements planned for this summer, as well as unspecified projects in 2015 and 2016.
Approval is all but assured because trustees formally announced their intent to borrow the money in December.
Despite its size, the loan will not result in a tax-rate increase for property owners, officials at the Lincolnshire school have said. Rather, the school’s existing debt will be extended five years, said Mark Michelini, the district’s assistant superintendent for business.
Officials initially proposed a $9.7 million renovation plan for this summer. The projected costs of some efforts have increased, Stevenson spokesman Jim Conrey said.
Additionally, some tasks initially planned for this summer have been deferred until 2015, Conrey said.
The projects now planned for this summer include:
Ÿ A $2.3 million renovation of the science and math labs in the east building.
Ÿ A $1.1 million renovation of the west building’s fine arts classrooms.
Ÿ The continued implementation of a keyless entry security system, which will cost $1 million.
Ÿ Renovation of the band room in the west building, which could cost $140,000.
Ÿ Carpet replacement, which could cost $120,000.
Additionally, the school board will discuss plans to update Stevenson’s website.
The district now has separate designs for a traditional computer website and the site that is viewed on mobile devices.
The goal is to have a single system that can be easily navigated by people using either type of device.
“In effect, we will be merging our website and mobile website into one,” Conrey said.
Final action on the contract is expected in March, he said.
Monday’s meeting is set for 7:30 p.m. at the administration center, which is behind the school near the football field.