New Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee Formed

By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Tuesday, June 22nd, 2021 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News Eastern/Southeast Oregon Top Stories

BAKER CITY – During the recent regular monthly meeting, the Baker School District board approved and charged a new independent, citizen-led bond oversight committee to monitor the delivery of the proposed bond program to ensure accountability, fiscal transparency, and community trust. The superintendent will serve as the direct liaison to the group, which will also provide periodic updates to the community and school board.

The committee’s work will include helping to select general contractors, architects, and vendors; review financial statements, project scope, construction documents, and bid solicitations; inspect school facilities and grounds; recommend policies and procedures to enhance accountability; communicate bond project progress; and help inform program decisions.

The 11-member bond oversight committee will be comprised of the following individuals: Jess Blatchford, Liz Burton, Kevin Cassidy, Nathan Defrees, Josey Gaslin, Loran Joseph, Katie Lamb, Dave Lindley, Bruce Nichols, Phil Stone, and Deon Strommer.

Committee members span a wide range of expertise, including community involvement, business leadership, finance, construction, long-range facility planning, and infrastructure project management.

“We are thankful for the willingness of these new committee members to serve in such an important capacity,” says Superintendent Witty. “A school bond measure hasn’t passed locally since 1948, and we are excited for the community to be part of this important revitalization of local schools.”