League of Women Voters Oakland Area Candidate Forum - September 15, 2026

The League of Women Voters Oakland Area hosted a candidate forum on September 15, 2026, featuring six candidates running for the Royal Oak Schools Board of Education. The forum focused on candidates' perspectives regarding governance, community engagement, and key issues facing the district, including the upcoming school bond vote. Several candidates emphasized the importance of the bond, which would fund critical infrastructure improvements such as HVAC upgrades, safety enhancements, and sustainability initiatives. They discussed the potential fallout if the bond fails, including deferred maintenance and the need to revisit community support. Candidates also highlighted fiscal responsibility, equity in education, and the need for transparent communication with stakeholders. While no specific contract awards or vendor selections were discussed, the bond vote represents a significant capital improvement project that will impact future procurement and spending decisions for the district.