Public hearing held on up-to-$9M bond for athletic facilities as residents raise cost and pay concerns

The Richland County Community School District 1 board opened a public hearing to take oral and written testimony on a proposal to sell bonds not to exceed $9 million to alter, repair and equip school buildings and improve school sites, with specific uses described as the athletic stadium, baseball and softball fields, tennis courts, track and parking.

Board leadership described the bond proceeds’ intended uses and invited comments from the public. Several employees and residents used the public-comment period to press the board on two distinct concerns: the planned athletic project’s ultimate cost and the financial effect on support staff if the district shifts from a 12-month to a 9-month pay distribution.

Tina Anderson, a paraprofessional who said she joined the district as a para in 2015 and currently supervises the ISS room, told the board: “I worry that eliminating the annual pay option will force me and others to look for additional work or even leave the district entirely.” Heather Baker, a district secretary, described being moved from a 12-month to a 9-month pay schedule without notice and said “consistent pay throughout the year is necessary for financial stability.” Natasha Brasher, a paraprofessional of more than 10 years, explained the mechanics plainly: being paid over 12 months “does not mean we are being paid for time we did not work,” and she said her annual income last year was $23,500.

Community member Matt Zuber, who identified himself as supportive of the sports complex but cautious about cost overruns, urged the board to ensure a firm cap on spending. “This project absolutely needs a cap,” Zuber said, warning that earlier estimates he had seen of $10–12 million have shifted into the $20–22 million range and that the campus-wide work could escalate further if not tightly constrained.

The hearing was formally adjourned by motion from Mr. Dennis Anderson, seconded by Mr. Wilson, and the board returned to open session by roll-call vote. No bond sale vote occurred during the hearing; the public hearing record was opened and closed to collect testimony ahead of future board action.