Welcome to the Project Timeline and Status page of the School Building Advisory Committee (SBAC). This page serves as a transparent and comprehensive chronicle of our journey from the aftermath of the November 2022 referendum failure to our current mission of developing a new, community-aligned school building proposal for the November 2024 referendum. Here, we document each step of our progress – from the formation of the SBAC, through our phases of learning, listening, and collaboration with expert project managers and designers, as well as the public. Our aim is to provide a clear, ongoing record of our efforts, decisions, and milestones, reflecting our commitment to transparency and community involvement in shaping the future of Cape Elizabeth’s schools.
Updated: May 7, 2024
HISTORICAL AND FUTURE TIMELINE
November 8, 2022
Cape Elizabeth residents vote against the School Bond
Cape Elizabeth residents vote against the proposed School Bond, with a total of 3,817 votes against and 2,337 in favor. This outcome highlighted the need for reassessment and re-engagement with the community on the future of school infrastructure projects.
December 13, 2022
Formation of Joint Ad-hoc School Building Advisory Committee
The School Board decides to disband the existing Building Oversight Committee, opting instead to form a new joint ad-hoc School Building Advisory Committee in collaboration with the Town Council. This strategic move is aimed at fostering a more unified and inclusive approach to addressing the school infrastructure needs in Cape Elizabeth.
January 12, 2023
Formation of Joint Ad-hoc School Building Advisory Committee
The Town Council and School Board begin accepting applications, opening up an opportunity for five town residents to join the committee. This call for applications marked a significant step in involving the community directly in the planning and decision-making process for the school building project.
March 9, 2023
School Building Advisory Meets for the First Time
The School Building Advisory Committee convened for its first meeting on March 9, 2023. This inaugural session signified the beginning of a collaborative effort to address the school building needs in Cape Elizabeth, marking a new phase in community-involved school planning and development.
June 1, 2023
Turner Townsend Heery selected as Owners Project Manager
On June 1, 2023, the School Building Advisory Committee announced the selection of Turner Townsend Heery as the Owners Project Manager. Their expertise in managing large-scale construction projects will provide crucial guidance and oversight to the school building development process in Cape Elizabeth.
July 20, 2023
Town Wide Survey Administered by Portland Research Group Kicks Off
On July 20, 2023, a significant step was taken with the initiation of a town-wide survey, administered by Portland Research Group. This survey aimed to gather comprehensive feedback from the residents of Cape Elizabeth regarding their perspectives and priorities for the school building project.
September 20, 2023
Public Forum to Present Results of Town-Wide Survey Results
On September 20, 2023, the School Building Advisory Committee hosted a public forum to present and discuss the results of the town-wide survey conducted by Portland Research Group. This event offered a platform for community members to understand the collective feedback on the school building project, highlighting key findings and fostering an open dialogue about future steps.
November 15, 2023
Public Forum to Introduce the Architects from Harriman
The School Building Advisory Committee organized a public forum on November 15, 2023, to introduce Harriman Architects to the Cape Elizabeth community. This event marked a significant step in the school building project, providing residents with the opportunity to meet the architects and learn about their approach and expertise in designing future-focused educational facilities.
November 30, 2023
Public Forum to review current state of the schools, presented by Harriman
The SBAC Public Forum on November 30, 2023, focused on assessing the current state of Cape Elizabeth’s school facilities. Harriman Architects and Superintendent Chris Record provided an overview, emphasizing data collection and the development of various options for the schools. The forum highlighted the need to align school facilities with modern educational requirements, emphasizing 21st Century Skills. Safety, efficiency, and sustainability issues in existing structures were discussed, alongside potential solutions ranging from basic repairs to full new construction. Community input was sought through interactive workshops, shaping the guiding principles for future school designs. More info here.
February 1, 2024
Public Forum to review seven preliminary school design options, presented by Harriman
The public forum is your opportunity to see the possibilities firsthand, engage in discussions, and share your perspectives on what you believe will best serve the students and educators of Cape Elizabeth. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, student, or simply a concerned resident, your insights will play a key role in guiding the decision-making process.
April 4, 2024
Public Forum to review three final school design options, presented by Harriman
April 4, 2024 will represent a significant milestone in our journey towards revitalizing Cape Elizabeth’s schools. On this day, the School Building Advisory Committee, in partnership with Harriman Architects, will host a public forum to present the three final school design options. This critical event will provide an in-depth look at the proposed designs, each meticulously crafted to address our community’s educational needs and aspirations. The forum is an essential opportunity for residents to engage, ask questions, and offer feedback on the designs, ensuring that the final selection for the November 2024 referendum truly reflects the community’s vision. The insights and opinions gathered from this forum will play a vital role in shaping the future of our school facilities.
April 25, 2024
SBAC votes on final design option
This decision follows months of extensive research, community input, and expert consultation. It signifies the culmination of a collaborative effort to identify the most suitable and sustainable design that aligns with the educational needs, community aspirations, and budgetary considerations. This crucial vote sets the stage for the next phase of bringing the chosen design to life, representing a significant step forward in our commitment to enhancing the educational landscape of Cape Elizabeth.
July 11, 2024
Final design option presented to School Board and Town Council for vote
On this date, the School Building Advisory Committee will present the final school design option to the School Board and Town Council. This presentation is the culmination of more than a year of community consultation and collaborative efforts with Turner Townsend Heery and Harriman architects. It will represent a vision that aligns with the educational needs and community values ascertained through rigorous engagement processes. The School Board and Town Council’s review and approval of this final design are crucial steps toward placing the proposal on the November 2024 referendum, setting the stage for transformative changes in our town’s educational landscape.
November 5, 2024
Referendum Day
On this day, the community’s collective voice will be heard as residents cast their votes on the proposed school building project, a culmination of the SBAC’s extensive work since the November 2022 referendum. This referendum will reflect our community’s informed decisions and preferences for the future of our school infrastructure. It will be the result of thorough planning, extensive community engagement, and careful consideration of various design options and budgetary constraints. The outcome of this day will set the course for the next chapter in the development and modernization of Cape Elizabeth’s educational facilities, impacting current and future generations of students and educators.