Financial Information
Updated: 01/07/2026
Visit the following pages for additional information on the Elementary Project's:
- Planning History
- Latest updates
- Mast Way scope of work
- Moharimet scope of work
How much will the Elementary Project cost?
In March 2026, ORCSD will ask voters to consider a $9.827 million bond for the expansion and renovation projects at Mast Way and Moharimet elementary schools.
Estimated increase in taxes per $1,000 of assessed value based on a 3.44% interest rate:
|
Year 1 (interest only) |
Year 2* (interest + principal) |
|
| Durham | $0.06 | $0.31 |
| Lee | $0.11 | $0.59 |
| Madbury | $0.07 | $0.37 |
* Year 2 is projected to be more expensive as it is the first year of paying principal.
Why do we need a bond?
ORCSD is facing overcrowding and inadequate, dysfunctional instructional spaces at Mast Way and Moharimet schools, which undermines equitable program delivery and service quality.
- Students Deserve the Right Space to Learn.
- The proposed expansion and renovation of both elementary schools will fix overcrowded classrooms and inadequate spaces, critically impacting program delivery. This project creates proper and optimal learning environments.
- Equitable Education Built to Last.
- This capital plan project emphasizes strategic long-term planning to ensure the district can meet state and federal requirements while ensuring equitable learning for all students.
- Thoughtfully Designed, Fiscally Responsible.
- The expansion and renovation of Mast Way and Moharimet was designed through extensive teacher input and scaled to stay under $10 million. Every square foot addresses critical student needs to maximize your investment.
- Cost Controlled and Guaranteed.
- The guaranteed maximum price (GMP) of $9,827,000 cannot be exceeded, protecting taxpayers from overruns. If approved in March 2026, the construction will be completed for the 2027-2028 school year.
Who pays for education in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has no state income tax or sales tax, so it relies on property taxes as the primary revenue source for all local services, including schools. This means most public schools’ funding comes directly from property owners.
While the state provides some education funding through business taxes and other sources, approximately 60-70% of New Hampshire school budgets typically come from local property taxes, making it one of the most property-tax-reliant states in the nation.
Access the information shown below in a PDF document.