At the heart of the meeting was the proposed referendum, scheduled for March 10, 2026, which seeks voter approval to issue bonds for a district-wide facilities renovation program. The board emphasized the necessity of these upgrades, citing the aging infrastructure of the schools, which average 59 years in age. The proposed improvements are aimed at modernizing classrooms, upgrading security, and ensuring that facilities align with current educational objectives. Notably, the referendum offers a unique opportunity to access $11.3 million in state assistance, covering nearly 30% of the debt service, which would not be available through the general operating budget constrained by a 2% tax levy cap.

The detailed renovation plan includes significant projects across all district schools. The high school is set to receive extensive updates, including the creation of three equal-sized science labs and the relocation of existing STEM and manufacturing labs to enhance efficiency. Plans also include a renovation of the culinary arts lab and the TV broadcasting studio, alongside partial roofing system replacements. Security enhancements such as ballistic safety film for windows and doors, expanded camera systems, and improved lockdown protocols are integral components of the proposal.

Bedwell School will undergo a transformation of its lower level, which is currently described as “dark and dimly lit.” The improvements will feature enhanced lighting, updated graphics, and the remodeling of three classrooms into two larger STEM labs and a smaller room for speech therapy. Additional security measures include a newly proposed security office adjacent to the vestibule to conduct pre-entry vetting, thus increasing safety. Renovations will also address accessibility, with the addition of ADA-compliant toilet facilities for kindergarten classrooms.

Financial details presented by the board project a total cost of approximately $38 million for the high school renovations, with $6.5 million anticipated in debt service aid, reducing the net cost to $15.3 million. The middle school renovations are estimated at $6.8 million, benefiting from $2.1 million in aid, while Bedwell’s renovations are projected at $9.3 million, with $2.6 million in aid. The overall net taxable cost for the referendum stands at approximately $26.6 million.

The tax implications for residents were a key focus, with the board outlining reductions in annual tax impacts across the district. For an average assessed home in Bernardsville Borough, taxes are expected to decrease from $836 to $527 annually over the bond’s life. Similar reductions are projected in Far Hills and Peapack Gladstone, with taxes dropping from $340 to $214 and from $531 to $335, respectively. These calculations are based on a projected 4% interest rate, with potential for lower rates depending on market conditions.

The board stressed the importance of timing, noting that construction would take place during summer months or when students are not in school to minimize disruption. Strategic bidding for projects will be important to secure the best pricing, with the implementation schedule to be developed post-referendum. The board underscored that failure of the referendum would result in no facility changes and the loss of promised state aid.

Community engagement is a priority, with the board inviting residents to access additional information online, including a QR code for resources and inquiries. The board also addressed questions regarding the inclusion of the culinary arts program, emphasizing its role in offering diverse educational pathways beyond cooking, such as business and entrepreneurship skills.