Q: Why are we proposing this project?

A: New York state has encouraged school districts to continually improve facilities in smaller project increments. This process lessens the financial burden, if any, on the taxpayers as projects are smaller.

Q: What is the total cost of the proposed project?

A: Proposition one is estimated to cost $6.8 million. This estimate includes construction and incidental costs. We are estimating conservatively to cover for inflation and any unforeseen expenses. Incidental costs include architect, construction management, legal and other fees. Proposition two is estimated to cost $750,000 dollars.

Q: How long do capital projects generally take from start to finish?

A: Once voters approve a capital project, it can often take between two and three years to complete. Once the project is voter approved, the design work begins. Design includes input from the community, school staff and school administration. This normally takes a few months. The design is then sent to the New York State Education Department (NYSED) for review. This review may take about one year to complete. Once approved by NYSED, the project is bid and construction begins.

Q: How is this project financed and what will the cost be for residents?

A: For proposition one, New York state will pay 92 cents on the dollar for aidable items. The district is anticipating that 100% of the project is eligible for aid. The remaining 8 cents, as well as any ineligible work, is the local share. This remaining amount will be offset by the Edwards-Knox Central School District's capital reserve. The district is not anticipating any tax increase to property owners as a result of proposition one.

For proposition two, construction of a toilet room, concession stand and outdoor classroom is not eligible for aid by NYSED. Therefore, to achieve this project scope, taxes in the Edwards-Knox community would increase by approximately $19 per year for a home with an assessed value of $100,000 and basic STAR.

Have another question?

You are invited to contact Superintendent Erin E. Woods at 315-562-8130 for more information.