On Monday night a committee of Brookesmith ISD taxpayers and stakeholders met for the third time to consider improvements for the school district.  New money is expected to be available in the coming years from the IP Radian solar project.  John Blackburn of Live Oak Public Finance told the committee that if they want to issue a bond for campus improvements, now is the time to do it, because the new tax revenue from the solar project will pay about 38% of the cost of the bonds.

After much discussion, the committee voted to recommend two bonds.  One for $4 million, which would cover general renovations, repairs, and upgrades to current facilities, Ag Shop renovations, and parking lot paving.  A second bond for $5.66 million would pay for a new athletic complex, which would include a new track, grass football field, bleachers, lighting, concession stand, field house, etc.  The voters would have the option of approving both bonds, one or the other, or neither.  If both bonds are approved, taxes on an average property in the District would increase by approximately $127 per year.

The committee recommendation now goes to the Brookesmith ISD Board of Trustees.  If they approve, the District will have to order bond measures by February 18.  The voters would then vote on the bonds on May 7.