School Board Holding Facilities, Bond Referendum Workshop

The Babylon Board of Education is hosting a workshop on Wednesday, Oct. 16 to discuss necessary upgrades at the district's three buildings and the upcoming bond referendum.

The board, along with the community-member comprised Facilities Review Advisory Committee, have been assessing the conditions of the district's three buildings – the Elementary School, Grade School and Junior-Senior High School – and look into potential fixes and upgrades for the aging buildings.

"Not surprisingly, a majority of the committee’s findings were in line with what we, as a Board, have known for a long time – our facilities are in need of serious upgrade and repair," the board said in a letter to the community.

According to board members, the last time the buildings had seen a major facility update was "at the turn of the century," along with a twice-defeated bond project in 2006.

"Given the scope and scale of the projects identified by the committee, it is clear that we cannot continue this pattern of piecemeal funding or disregard for significant looming facilities challenges," the letter continued.

Listed necessary upgrades include new roofs, heating systems, electrical systems and health and safety improvements as well as updates to the fine arts facilities and athletic fields, much of which, the board said, is reaching the end of its lifespan.

The current recommendations for upgrades and renovations would put the bond at $26 million, or an average of $289 per year tax increase per household.

The board will be holding the meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 16 at Rowe Hall at 7 p.m. All members of the community are invited to attend and voice their comments and concerns.