Flemington-Raritan School District - Board of Education Town Hall 9/30/2026

The Flemington-Raritan Board of Education held a town hall on September 30, 2026, to discuss a proposed $30.3 million facilities bond referendum scheduled for a November 3 vote. The plan covers repairs and upgrades at six school buildings, including roofs, ventilation and HVAC, exterior doors, flooring, playgrounds, restrooms, and secure entrances. The district estimates approximately $12.1 million in New Jersey debt-service aid for eligible costs, leaving about $18.2 million to finance locally. Presenters said expiring bond payments would allow the proposed debt to be issued without increasing the district’s debt-service tax levy; they also noted estimated annual debt-service reductions for homes at municipal average assessments. No procurement award or spending motion was made at the town hall.

Discussion covered estimated borrowing costs (projections used a 4.1% net interest rate), project estimates based on the district’s long-range facilities plan, and the need for final plans and specifications after voter approval. District representatives said SSP Architects and engineering consultants would support project development, and that the JP Case roof would be among the first projects put out to bid if the referendum passes. The district has not decided whether to hire a separate project manager. Officials said expenditures cannot exceed voter authorization and that projects would be prioritized, with essential work addressed first. Participants also asked about energy-upgrade overlap, project oversight, and costs if the referendum fails; representatives said delaying the work could forfeit state aid and raise future costs. The next town hall was announced for October 28, 2026.