07-22-2026 CCS School Board Meeting

The Carmel Clay Schools Board held a regular meeting on July 22, 2026, focusing heavily on procurement and budget matters. Key procurement discussions included approval of multiple change orders for major capital projects such as the Carmel High School football stadium, natatorium renovation, and Cherry Tree renovation, with specific change orders ranging from $41,000 to $1 million-plus. The board approved a bid award of $308,750 to R Adams Roofing for the West Clay Elementary roof replacement. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a detailed presentation and discussion of a proposed $59.5 million 2027 bond issue covering facility renovations, equipment, technology, buses, and band instruments. Financial advisors explained the bond's impact on debt service and tax levies, emphasizing a consistent, inflation-adjusted debt service levy approach and a relatively aggressive 10-year bond payoff schedule. The board discussed the implications of recent state legislation (SEA 1) on funding and tax credits, with projections showing an 8% increase in gross assessed property values, which could affect tax rates and legislative responses. The board also approved the 2026-27 school handbooks and discussed the homestead credit reallocation affecting budget allocations. No immediate decisions were made on the bond issue, as it is part of a longer planning process. The meeting concluded with reports on human resources recruitment efforts and academic achievements.