Marlin ISD preparing for potential May bond issue

With hopes of having a Marlin ISD bond election May 2022, the Pre-Bond Planning Advisory Committee, composed of local community members, teachers, and staff, is moving forward as they met Thursday, Jan. 6, at the high school for the second workshop.

During the break-out session, based on wants, needs and priorities, four groups were given the opportunity to create the “ideal high school and sports facilities.” 

One attendee described the activity, “like giving a kid a Sears Roebuck Christmas catalog. It was exciting making a wish list.”  

Needs included, but not limited to, science labs, locker room improvements, new concession stands, advanced technology including charging stations in the classrooms, new football turf, press box, and girl’s locker room at Legion Field just to name a few. The wants were updated and additional bleachers at Legion Field, centrally located Transportation and Administration buildings, and athletic complex. 

At the end of the session, it was determined groups shared similar suggestions including non-negotiables such as providing curriculum-based needs. 

A 20-year or 25-year bond package would result in an estimated $28 million for the proposed projects. The tax payment timeline would be 2022-2025.

The preliminary budget will be presented at the next meeting, Thursday, Jan.13, at 5 p.m., at the high school. 

A finalized budget/report will be submitted to the Managing Board at the Feb. 7 meeting. The Pre-Bond Advisory Board was reminded this project will meet the needs of the next generation, Marlin Elementary and Middle School students, and would reflect the “Culture, Curriculum and Commitment.”