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Frequently Asked Questions
General Project Information
What is the total cost of the proposed building project?
The total combined cost is $39.8 million, split into two propositions: Proposition 1 (K-12 School improvements) at $24.8M and Proposition 2 (New Bus Garage & Traffic Upgrades) at $15M.
How much will this cost local taxpayers?
The local share is approximately $12.8 million. New York State will provide approximately $27 million in building aid (76% aid ratio), significantly reducing the local burden.
Why are there two separate propositions?
The project is divided into two propositions to allow voters to approve them separately. Proposition 1 focuses on K-12 school building improvements, while Proposition 2 addresses the bus garage and site improvements. Both are eligible for state building aid at different rates.
What does "aidable" mean?
"Aidable" refers to expenses that qualify for New York State Building Aid reimbursement. Proposition 1 is 91% aidable and Proposition 2 is 86% aidable, meaning most of the project costs will receive state funding support.
When will the public vote on this project?
The public referendum is scheduled for December 2025.
Proposition 1: K-12 School Improvements
What are the major improvements included in Proposition 1?
Major improvements include: auditorium renovation with new lighting, rigging, sound system and air conditioning; complete kitchen renovation with new equipment; safety and security system upgrades including IP-based emergency systems and building access control; facade replacement at elementary wings; cafeteria updates; gymnasium improvements; primary wing classroom updates; and athletic field improvements.
Why does the auditorium need renovation?
The auditorium requires updates to stage and house lighting, rigging, stage sound system, and assistive listening technology. Additionally, air conditioning will be added to improve comfort during events. The existing seating will be preserved.
What safety and security improvements are planned?
The project includes replacing the public address (PA) system with an IP-based emergency system featuring blue light notification and building access control lockdown capabilities. The entrance lobby will receive security upgrades including a fixed reception window and parcel transfer box. The fire alarm system replacement will also continue.
What work will be done in the cafeteria and kitchen?
The cafeteria will receive a complete renovation including replacement of the glass "greenhouse" structure, removal of the stage, and updated interior finishes. The kitchen will be completely renovated with all new equipment to meet modern food service standards.
Will classrooms be updated?
Yes. The primary wing will receive new corridor lockers, classroom flooring, replacement of 1950s-era casework, and updated toilet room finishes and fixtures. The 3rd-5th grade classroom wing will get new unit ventilators and casework, along with weight room improvements.
What improvements will be made to athletic facilities?
The main stadium will receive LED field lighting upgrades. The baseball field will get complete in-field renovations including new drainage, clay infield, sod lawn, and replacement of fencing, gates, backstop, dugouts, and scoreboard. The main gymnasium will have glass block windows replaced and the floor refinished. The elementary gym will receive new bleachers, basketball hoops, control system, and a retractable batting cage.
Are there any ADA accessibility improvements?
Yes, the project addresses door entrance accessibility issues throughout the building, including the maintenance and agriculture areas.
What will happen to the bus loop?
The bus loop pavement and entrance drive to the loading dock area will be reconstructed. Additional modifications are included in Proposition 2 as part of larger traffic and safety reconfigurations.
Proposition 2: Bus Garage & Traffic Upgrades
Why does the bus garage need to be replaced?
The current bus garage is outdated and needs replacement. The new facility will be built at the east edge of the parking lot and will include modern maintenance bays, improved workspace, and additional amenities for stadium use including toilet and concession spaces.
What is included in the new bus garage?
The new 120' x 60' facility will include bus maintenance bays, a bus wash bay, parts and supplies storage, office space, break room, training room, mechanical/electrical room, lockers, and public toilet/concession facilities for stadium events.
What site improvements are included in Proposition 2?
Parking lots on the east and west sides of the current bus garage location will be reconstructed with new site lighting. Two existing storage sheds will be demolished and replaced with a new cold storage pole barn with electric and lighting, including an adjacent canopy over outdoor bus parking. The student drop-off loop will be improved with 16 drop-off spaces and visitor/HC parking.
What will happen to the underground fuel tanks?
Two underground fuel tanks (heating oil and diesel) will be removed, and a new relocated bus fueling area with an underground tank will be provided in a safer, more accessible location.
Will parking be improved?
Yes, the project includes reconstruction of parking areas with 140 car parking spaces (145 existing), 15 car parking spaces for student drop-off area, and improved site lighting throughout.
What happens to the school generator?
The K-12 School's natural gas generator will be replaced and relocated away from the building for improved safety and accessibility.
Timeline & Process
What is the SEQRA process mentioned in the presentation?
SEQRA (State Environmental Quality Review Act) is a New York State law that requires environmental review of proposed projects. The Environmental Assessment Form has been sent to all interested agencies for review as part of the approval process.
What are the next steps before the December vote?
In September 2025, updates will be reported to the Board of Education for final discussion. In October 2025, the BOE will pass formal project and SEQRA resolutions. The public referendum will then be held in December 2025.
How long will construction take if the project is approved?
While the presentation doesn't specify exact construction timelines, typical school building projects of this scope take 18-24 months to complete, often phased to minimize disruption to the school year.
Will school be in session during construction?
Most work will likely be scheduled during summer breaks and school vacations when possible, with careful planning to minimize disruption to educational programs when school is in session.
Financial Questions
What is the MCA (Maximum Cost Allowance)?
The MCA is the maximum amount per square foot that New York State will reimburse for building aid on certain types of projects. Proposition 1 maximizes the MCA eligibility, while Proposition 2 has no MCA cap, meaning different state aid formulas apply.
How is the 76% building aid ratio calculated?
New York State uses a formula based on the district's property wealth and income wealth to determine the building aid percentage. Hamilton CSD qualifies for a 76% reimbursement rate, which is favorable and reduces the local tax burden significantly.
What happens if only one proposition passes?
Each proposition is voted on separately, so it's possible for voters to approve one and not the other. If that happens, only the approved proposition would move forward.
Will my taxes increase because of this project?
Tax impact information should be available from the district's business office. The impact depends on many factors including the district's overall financial plan, assessed property values, and the timing of bond payments. Contact the district for specific tax impact projections.
Is there a payment plan for the local share?
School districts typically bond capital projects over 15-30 years, spreading the cost over time. The Board of Education will determine the specific financing plan.
Additional Information
Where can I learn more about the project?
Additional information will be available on the district website, at public information sessions, and from the district's business office. The Board of Education meetings are also open to the public.
Can I tour the facilities to see what needs improvement?
The district may organize facility tours before the vote. Contact the district office to inquire about scheduled tours or to arrange a visit.
Who designed this project?
The project was designed by king+king architects.
What if I have more questions?
Contact Hamilton Central School District or attend upcoming Board of Education meetings and public information sessions.
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