A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation on the refinancing of a portion of the 2016 bonds, which is projected to save the district approximately $1.2 million in interest over the remaining life of the bonds. Financial advisor Matt Hammer explained that following a competitive bond sale involving 17 bidders, the district secured a favorable true interest cost of around 2.46%, a figure lower than initial estimates. This move will legally return savings to taxpayers through reduced future debt service levies. The board unanimously approved the resolution to ratify the issuance and sale of the bonds. The closing of the bonds is scheduled for January 29, with redemption of the callable bonds set for March 5.

In addition to financial strategies, the board discussed ongoing energy savings initiatives within the school district. The district has been working on reducing energy consumption and enhancing operational efficiencies, with specific targets set for reductions by 2026 and 2030 based on a 2023 baseline. Efforts have included an energy analysis at various schools and the installation of LED lighting at Horizon East and Popesfield, which has already yielded substantial savings. The speaker highlighted an impressive $34,000 rebate received from the lighting project and projected annual savings of approximately $50,000 for the facilities budget. Despite a decrease in energy usage by 5.3% in 2024, the anticipated financial savings were not fully realized, prompting further discussions on optimizing energy management strategies and addressing any anomalies, such as increased usage at Hopkins.

The board also approved two significant contracts related to internet bandwidth and fiber connections. A contract with Midco was approved for Category 1 internet bandwidth, which includes doubling the internet bandwidth from the high school to other buildings. This contract will result in a total savings of approximately $87,000 over a five-year term. Additionally, a contract with 702 Communications was approved for a fiber connection between the high school, Dorothy Dodds Elementary, and the Vista Center for Education. This contract will save the district $858 monthly and enhance redundancy by increasing the number of fiber strands from four to six.

Organizational matters were also addressed, with the election of new officers for the school board. Dave Marquardt was elected as the board chair, and Cassidy Bjorklund was elected vice chair. The board discussed the committee assignments and set future meeting dates and times. A proposal was made to change the meeting schedule to avoid conflicts with the Moorhead City Council meetings, but the motion to maintain the original schedule prevailed, securing a strong majority in favor.

The board also considered a request for a major trip by the high school band and orchestra to Orlando in March 2027. Representatives from the band and orchestra programs presented their plans, emphasizing the educational value of public performances and studio work. The board voted in favor of the trip, with an estimated cost of $2,400 per student.