Mercer Island staff outline $35 million bond plan focused on HVAC, ADA and safety upgrades

District staff and outside consultants presented the annual long-range facilities plan and sketched a potential $35 million bond for February 2027 to address mechanical systems, ADA needs and safety/security work. Presenters said the bond would prioritize about $23 million in HVAC and fire-alarm upgrades and carry contingencies for seismic/other work; phase-two projects such as an Islander Middle School replacement and continued high-school mechanical upgrades were listed as future priorities with costs to be determined.

Staff reviewed recent capital work completed in spring/summer 2026 (roof replacements, gym refinishes, classroom furniture replacements and maintenance work) and described enrollment and utilization methods used to size projects. They said Davis Demographics' projection (version two) estimated 3,754 students while September headcount was 3,791—about 36 students (≈1%) above the projection—and that open enrollment currently accounts for roughly 113 students at middle/high school levels.

Board members asked about staging, funding partners, and possible shared costs with the city for projects like turf and track replacement. Staff said a full turf and track replacement could cost roughly $1.5 million, of which about $1 million might be expected from the city's sinking fund; district planning would proceed with staged projects to keep facilities operational during construction. The board did not take a binding vote on a bond measure at the meeting but staff outlined an Oct. 8 first-reading schedule and a Dec. 11 resolution filing window.