OBSERVER Photo by Braden Carmen Superintendent Dr. John O’Connor stated that the figures the district anticipated lined up with what NYSERDA proposed for a Clean Green Energy Project at Forestville schools.

FORESTVILLE — A proposal that Superintendent Dr. John O’Connor initially thought was “too good to be true” turned out to be all it was cracked up to be. The numbers lined up for Forestville to propose a Clean Green Energy Project to district taxpayers at no additional tax impact, thanks to New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) assistance.

Now it is in the hands of the voters. The Clean Green Energy Project vote will be held on Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m. in the Hornet Lobby. District Clerk Melody Voigt will serve as Chairperson of the vote, with Carol DePasquale and Marlene Bradigan serving as election inspectors. For the project to be approved, only a simple majority of the votes cast must be in favor of the project.

The project would install HVAC systems and mechanical upgrades throughout the district at a total cost of $7,466,977. If approved, the project would be entirely covered without raising any additional funds, thanks to a NYSERDA grant of $945,377, $100,000 in utility rebates, and over $6.4 million of New York State Building Aid.

As part of the proposed Clean Green Energy Project, the district would install new rooftop units at both schools to address heating, air conditioning, and air quality in classrooms, cafeterias, music rooms, and gymnasiums. The project would also replace windows on the second and third floors of the Middle/High School to reduce energy loss. Electrical upgrades will improve efficiency, as well.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for our district to modernize our buildings, meet environmental standards, and enhance learning environments — all without placing a burden on local taxpayers. I encourage all residents to participate in the vote and help us shape a healthier future for the Forestville school community,” O’Connor said.

The only downside for the district is that in order for the work to be covered at no tax impact, voters would need to approve the project — the second substantial building project in less than two years – because the money would first need to be borrowed by the district before it is reimbursed. The total cost of the project combined with the previously approved Capital Project now surpasses $19 million, but it would still not require a tax increase. Voters approved the Capital Project by a vote of 128-31.

If the Clean Green Energy Project is approved, the work will be completed in phases, along with the previously approved Capital Project upgrades, likely taking place over the next two years.

For more information on the project, visit the district’s website, forestville.com, or contact Voigt at (716) 965-6539 or mvoigt@forestville.com.