GF school referendum could climb

The size of the special May referendum in Grand Forks could expand beyond a new Valley Middle School and central kitchen project.

The Grand Forks School Board meeting as the Facilities Committee of the Whole last night (Monday) began discussions on whether to include a safety and security provision on the May 16th ballot.

The new middle school and kitchen carry a $61 million dollar price-tag. The safety-security measures could add another $17 to $18 million dollars to the “ask.”

Kyle Kvamme of ICON Architects told board members that with other referendums possible in future years it’s important to build voter trust.  “If we could give one recommendation is there’s only one question.  If you have more than one question you are dividing your public.  We also fully understand the bigger the project the more risk….”

Superintendent Terry Brenner says it’s a large figure that still needs some work before the next board meeting meets again on Monday.

A school survey late last year showed voter support for both the Valley Middle School project and upgrades for public safety.