Comstock Public Schools are looking at their options after a second bond request was defeated at the ballot box last week. The district had sought $23.7 million to install new roofs, add air conditioning in the high school and make other infrastructure improvements.

>Superintendent Dr. Jeff Thoenes says they will convene the facilities committee to redraw the request a third time, but adds the problems won't stop and says two-thirds of the middle school roof is in its last phase of existence.

The bond proposal failed by 132 votes despite the reduction in projects from the first time it went to voters last November. The district has applied for a state grant and can also take out a loan if voters keep saying no.

Community Voices on Failed Bond Vote

One community member asked about the previous bond vote. That money should have been used to do the job that you said it was supposed to be doing — fixing up these other schools. resident Tamme Keeler told the school board.

I'm not sure the Comstock School District will be able to survive long term if we keep denying support. Emilie Murphy said she implores those who worked to make sure this bond didn't pass to tell her their plan.

Infrastructure Crisis Continues

Superintendent Thoenes told the board the roofs don't regenerate. They continue to deteriorate. We had footage from drones that flew over the buildings. We did thermal imaging. So we know exactly the condition of the roofs. What needs to be done is clear.

>Two-thirds of the middle school roof was in its last phase of existence. Many sections need to be replaced. This is the most expensive type of repair.

The district has to figure out with the monies that they have now. Without bond money. How they repair the roof. Options are limited beyond a bond. Since state funds are focused on operations.

School Board Response

Treasurer Paul Lamphear challenged the claims of waste from no voters. Everything that we use is clearly and absolutely recorded and made transparent. I am going to ask you. Ask the committees to please come forward and specify what it is that you believe is being hidden. So we can bring that out and address it because it's there. There is no concealment.

If anyone ever has questions. We can get that information and share it. Member Charmica Knight said she feels like this is a very transparent board. This is not a board that's trying to hide anything.

Next Steps

Superintendent Thoenes brought up concerns that there might be a disconnect over the understanding of district needs. Whether you know and understand and wrap your loving arms around our kids. Whatever school they're at. And help lift them up in every way possible through great instruction. Curriculum supports through facilities that meet modern standards. Or you really don't understand how public schools work in particular our district.

The deadline to get the bond onto the November ballot should the district choose to do so is late July.

Correction: A previous version of this article misspelled Murphy's first name. The district regrets the error. We have fixed it.