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B. SCHOOL CAPITAL NEEDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE John Link stated that this committee was appointed by the Board of County Commissioners last summer y r to study the requests made by the two school systems for capital improvements. This committee met eight times. They listed the projects they felt were critical for both school systems. The committee is asking that the Board approve a bond e o f 5 0-7 pp nd order in the range 50-70 million. If the higher amount is approved, the committee recommends that a new high school be included for Chapel Hill/Carrboro. If a lower bond order p is approved, the Committee recommends that some money be available for additions to Chapel Hill High School. g Commissioner Gordon noted that the committee did not resolve the cost for new schools. The average cost is stated in the report. The decision on what the Board wants to carry to public hearing needs to be decided tonight. Commissioner Gordon g don noted that the ratio of money going to each school system is 2 : 1 in favor of the Chapel Hill- Carrboro system. Chair Carey stated that the committee members focused on quality education and this bond package will not take care of all the future needs of the two school systems . Commissioner Gordon stated that the group did agree that the individual items would depend upon the amount of the bond package. In many cases there was a consensus that the cost must be reduced. Commissioner Halkiotis asked about some of the costs as listed in the report. He commented about New Hope School and stated that the County cannot afford many of these structures. He feels these figures are not realistic and that the County cannot afford such costs . Commissioner Halkiotis suggested using the same construction p lans for like schools . He expressed concern about what the County can reasonably afford and what the people will support. Commissioner Willhoit inquired about the state's recommendation for square footage per pupil and what the ' state projects as the square foot cost and that these be compared to average costs. Commissioner Halkiotis noted that DPI came out with square footage that was unrealistic. He asked for information about the new high school that is proposed for 25 million. John Link will provide the Board with the information they have requested including school cost in Durham County. Chair Carey asked that the Board consider the high side of the range for the public hearing. Commissioner Willhoit stated his doubts about putting together a bond referendum for a May vote. In looking at enrollment projections, he asked if the growth in Chapel Hill is increasing because of infill or new growth. An increase in enrollment of 2700 produces an impact of 3 . 5 million on current expense which would take a tax increase of 10 cents . He feels the merger issue must be addressed whether we plan for a forced merger or a voluntary merger. The ratio issue must also be considered in the overall budget planning process along with equalization of funding. There are a lot of questions that need to be answered in the next few months. Commissioner Willhoit noted that impact fees need to be in place as soon as possible. Chair Carey feels the County needs to be prepared to deal with increased enrollment and that there is a better chance of getting a bond issue passed in November instead of May. After extended discussion on what to take to public hearing, motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Insko that the Board take to public hearing on December 11 a list of priority projects to include a new middle school for the Orange County District and a new elementary, middle and high school for the Chapel Hill/Carrboro District