The Facilities Oversight for Capital Utilization & Sustainability (FOCUS) Committee held its most recent meeting on September 3, 2024, continuing to refine and prioritize district facility projects. Led by Chair Anthony Wright and Vice Chair Andre Koch, the committee finalized Section V of the project chart, which outlines priorities, funding recommendations, and potential timelines for key district projects.
The Section V chart included several major priorities, such as:
Replacement of Byron Kibler Elementary: The committee discussed multiple options, including building a larger elementary and consolidating schools, targeting a bond for Fall 2025.
General Maintenance: High-priority maintenance projects were discussed. The majority of committee members favored addressing critical maintenance needs as soon as possible through a levy.
New Elementary in Black Diamond: The possibility of securing funding for an additional elementary school in Black Diamond, either through property sales or a future bond, was debated. Committee members expressed divided support on this issue.
Secure Campus Upgrades: The committee discussed upgrades like access control, video monitoring, and badging systems to improve campus security. These upgrades are likely to be funded through a levy.
Athletic Facilities: Priorities for athletic facilities include upgrades to Pete’s Pool, softball fields, and replacing the high school track and tennis courts. Funding for these projects will likely come from a combination of levies, bonds, and private grants.
In preparation for the next meeting, committee members were assigned sections of the recommendation report to draft.
The committee will reconvene on October 1, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. to finalize their recommendations and prepare their presentation to the school board. The public is encouraged to attend and observe the FOCUS meetings. For more information about the committee, access to full meeting summaries and presentations, or to attend meetings virtually, visit our website: https://www.enumclaw.wednet.edu/page/citizens-advisory-committee
