Board advances SPLOST 7, approves projects including West Broad redevelopment and Gaines renovation

The Clark County Board of Education approved placing the SPLOST 7 local option sales‑tax referendum on the ballot and heard detailed facilities updates on major projects.

Facilities staff presented two schematic options for the West Broad Career Academy site; the building committee recommended a three‑building solution that preserves the historic Minor Street and Campbell Lane buildings and adds a new lab building with parking, a turf area and a memorial plaza. "We came back with two different options. The committee voted for a three‑building solution," facilities staff told the board during the presentation.

Board members and staff discussed design details including bus and fire‑truck turning radiuses and daylighting for shop/lab spaces, plus opportunities to preserve onsite historic features. Committee members also discussed whether pedestrian routing could reduce short bus runs between academies while balancing security and inclement‑weather concerns.

The board also approved the SPLOST 7 referendum adoption and staff cautioned members on campaign rules: board staff cannot advocate for the tax, the project list is tentative and the community oversight committee (COC) will lead public promotion. "The detailed project list is tentative. It’s subject to change," staff said, urging consistent public messaging.

Separately, the board received a construction progress report on Gaines Elementary: canopy and loading‑dock expansions, new clinic parking and interior demolition and finishes were underway; staff reported projects remain on schedule.

Board members stressed the importance of community outreach and said they expect the COC and local partners to help explain the ballot measure to voters.