Superintendent: 30-year PSMI lease moving forward; high-school construction encountering unexpected pipes, enrollment down about 33

Mr. Gubler, the district superintendent, told the board the district has advanced a pending 30-year lease with PSMI and that the environmental assessment is complete, allowing the lease submission to proceed. "I believe the form is done and ready to go," he said, and staff expect the matter to progress in the next two months.

Gubler also updated trustees on construction at the new high school, saying crews discovered unexpected underground pipes during site work and are updating water and sewer lines. "So, hopefully, the pouring foundation in the next 2 weeks," he said, while noting unknown pipes have required adjustments. He described the work as "pretty good" overall despite the delays.

On enrollment, Gubler reported a modest decline: "Right now, I checked enrollment today compared to the last year at this time. We're down about 33 students, which is much better than anticipated." Board members asked whether the lease would be 30 years or five; Gubler confirmed a 30-year term and noted the assessment found "there's no need for appraisal as it's a non," indicating no monetary-appraisal requirement for the lease.

The board did not take final action on the PSMI lease at the meeting; Gubler framed the status as preparatory and said further administrative steps are expected in coming weeks.