The proposed bond referendum emerged as a central topic during the meeting, with discussions highlighting the district’s pressing facility needs. The superintendent emphasized the importance of this referendum, noting that every building in the district would benefit from the funds. repairs and improvements are necessary to prevent potential catastrophic failures, such as the failure of a boiler, which could cost nearly a million dollars. The high school fire alarm system’s recent repair underlines the urgency for systematic facility upgrades.

Specific concerns were raised about the quality of classroom furniture, with reports of chairs collapsing and causing injuries, which directly impacts student safety. Further facility issues include inadequate bathroom access and locker room safety concerns. The district also faces compliance requirements for non-gendered restrooms and calls for improvements to playgrounds that currently pose safety risks.

The discussion also addressed the poor condition of athletic facilities, with the current track deemed unsuitable for hosting official events, affecting school spirit and revenue. Safety hazards at the football and soccer stadiums have led to citations for compliance failures, particularly concerning restroom facilities and field conditions.

In tandem with the bond referendum, the board reviewed a proposed operating levy intended to maintain current class sizes, instructional supports, and retain high-quality staff. The district’s current funding levels are below the state average, with the district at $599 per pupil compared to the state average of just over $1,000. Even if the levy passes, the district would remain below the state average, but the gap would be reduced. The proposed operating levy, if approved, would generate approximately $1.65 million annually, starting in the 2025-2026 school year, aimed at stabilizing finances and addressing a projected budget gap.

The superintendent explained the complexities of school funding in Minnesota, noting that while the state legislature approved significant funding due to a budget surplus, new mandates have introduced additional expenses. Most of the district’s revenue comes from state aid, supplemented by locally collected property taxes that must be allocated for specific purposes. Despite increased state funding, schools often face spending mandates that do not provide sufficient financial support, with factors like inflation, class sizes, and aging facilities compounding financial challenges.

The meeting also touched on the positive impact of open enrollment, allowing non-resident students to enroll in Fridley schools, which contributes significant revenue to the district. This has supported smaller class sizes and generated nearly $8 million annually over the past decade. The community’s understanding of open enrollment has improved, with residents expressing increased clarity on the topic.

In addition to the financial discussions, the meeting featured a presentation by students involved in the production of “Urinetown: The Musical,” with a performance of “Look at the Sky” that was well-received by the board. The superintendent expressed enthusiasm for the students’ presentation and acknowledged the efforts of the cast and crew.

The meeting also included a construction update, with ongoing remodeling projects at middle schools to create private spaces for student-adult discussions and a bathroom remodel project at the high school, which will include gender-neutral and single-use bathrooms. Plans for a large window project at the community center and HVAC system upgrades at various facilities were also detailed.