REDMOND, Ore. - Redmond School District is hosting two forums focusing on strengthening community connections and discussing the Facilities Task Force suggested options for a potential May 2008 bond measure.

Forums will be held Friday, February 1, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Elton Gregory Middle School and Saturday, February 9, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Redmond High School.  Informational booths regarding district/school initiatives and programs will be available between 8:30 a.m. 9 a.m.

During the meetings, community and staff members will be asked to listen and provide input as the Task Force explains their recommended options:

Option 1 ($110 million bond):

·         1400-seat high school located at the Elkhorn/Canal site ($80 million – ten-year capacity solution)

·         Replace Evergreen elementary school with a new 600-seat elementary ($20 million).  Evergreen to be used for other community purposes.

·         Deferred maintenance ($10 million)

Option 2 ($75 million bond):

·         800-seat high school located at the Elkhorn/Canal site ($45 million – five-year capacity solution)

·         Replace Evergreen elementary school with a new 600-seat elementary ($20 million).  Evergreen to be used for other community purposes.

·         Deferred maintenance ($10 million)

In addition to the above options, the committee explored expanding the existing Redmond High School and did not find it to be a viable solution.  Expanding the high school only provided a five-year capacity solution with a cost similar to building a new high school.

About the Facilities Task Force

At the request of the Redmond School District’s Board of Directors, a citizen’s task force comprised of 35 community members began meeting in early November 2007. The task force has met weekly on Thursday evenings from 6:00 to 8:30 PM and is charged with bringing a recommendation to the School Board regarding a potential May 2008 bond measure.

·         Friday, February 1, 9 a.m. -3:30 p.m.:  Community is invited to an all-day session (9:00 AM to 3:30 PM) hosted by Elton Gregory Middle School to hear the task force’s preliminary report and to provide feedback.  Public is invited to attend and participate.

·         Saturday, February 9, 9 a.m. -3:30 p.m.:  Community is invited to an all-day session (9:00 AM to 3:30 PM) hosted by Redmond High School to hear the task force’s preliminary report and to provide feedback.  Public is invited to attend and participate.

·         Wednesday, February 13, 5:30 p.m.:  The task force anticipates giving a final report to the Board at their regular meeting, held at the District Office, 145 SE Salmon Avenue.  Public is invited to attend.

·         Wednesday, February 27, 5:30 p.m.:  School Board will take action on the recommendation for a May 2008 bond measure at their regular meeting, held at the District Office, 145 SE Salmon Avenue.  Public is invited to attend.