A bond proposal presentation includes the rebuilding of Cannon Elementary.[/caption]FIRST co-chairs Louie Sullins and Shea Kirkman said the proposal focuses on four primary objectives: securing students and staff, growth and evolution, investing in infrastructure and enhancing the classroom experience.
Some of the major projects in the proposal include $33 million dedicated to rebuilding Cannon Elementary in Grapevine and the building of two multipurpose activity centers—one at each high school for $16 million each.
There was some debate among trustees on whether or not a multipurpose activity center was needed, and if it was needed, was two necessary.
Kirkman said the main purpose for the facility would be to provide a climate-controlled environment that could be used by athletic teams, the band, cheer or drill team.
"We looked at some of the descriptions of these facilities throughout the state and there is an ability for this building to change its purpose or divide its space so that multiple programs can be using it at the same time," he said. "It's certainly not just a high school center, the district can also make it a rentable facility."
Board president Leon Leal said he thinks there is a need for the facilities stating that 90 percent of the district at the high school level was involved in extra curricular activities.
Board secretary Jesse Rodriquez had some inquiries on whether or not the centers were a need or a want for the district.
"My concern is we are spending $16 million for each facility," Rodriquez said. "I want to be able to look at our tax payers—ever single one of them—and be able to say 'yes we are watching every single dollar and we are spending every dollar the best way possible.'"
Other proposed projects include classroom additions, security cameras, improving accessibility on campuses and upgrading technology both devices and infrastructures.
On Feb. 18, the committee will come before the trustees to propose the final bond proposal. At that meeting trustees will vote on whether or not to send the bond to the May 7 election.
