City Council approves $447 million high school bond unanimously
Salem City Council unanimously backs $447 million high school bond. The Committee on Administration and Finance voted 5-0 on a $447,385,518 appropriation to construct a new grades 9-12 facility at 77 Willson Street, replacing the current 1976 building which the district says faces significant
City Council · Meeting of January 21, 2026
Salem City Council unanimously backs $447 million high school bond. The Committee on Administration and Finance voted 5-0 on a $447,385,518 appropriation to construct a new grades 9-12 facility at 77 Willson Street, replacing the current 1976 building which the district says faces significant infrastructure challenges including erratic climate control, roof leaks, and outdated laboratory equipment. The vote clears the way for a May 5, 2026 ballot question on a debt exclusion; the Massachusetts School Building Authority is expected to reimburse approximately 44 percent of project costs.
District officials estimate the debt exclusion would result in a median annual tax impact of $727 for residential property and $1,314 for commercial property over the anticipated 30-year repayment period.
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Source: the City Council meeting of January 21, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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