The Wayland Union school district’s plans to have a bond election during the August primary took a big step forward Monday during the Board of Education’s work session.

Guest presenters Steve Hoeksema and Scott Jernberg of architects Tower-Pinkster gave board members a preliminary outline of what can be expected of a two-series bond proposal that will face voters later this year.

The feature is a proposal for a new swimming pool to replace the current facility that is 48 years old, took often in disrepair and no longer acceptable as a pool for interscholastic competition. Installed in 1974 when the high school was opened, it just hasn’t kept up with new trends and new demands.

“That pool has gone beyond its useful life and it needs to be replaced,” he said.

Hoeksema said plans for the new pool include 10 lanes, four more than offered now, and a much improved ventilation system. He added that if voters approve, it will be a lot like Otsego’s.

“With a two-series bond, you’re getting a lot bigger bang for your buck,” Hoeksema said.

He explained that the first bond series, at a cost of about $8 million, will handle a variety of needs for the elementary schools and the middle school. For example, toilet room renovations, new furniture, technology upgrades and new carpeting will be done for the elementaries at Dorr, Baker and Steeby. The middle school will get a new roof and windows. Pine Street will see renovations for its ancient gym. All will be done uring the first year of the bond to show everyone good faith in getting things done.

Besides a new pool, the high school would get an expanded wood shop and auto shop room, renovated parking lot to the west.

Jernberg said the idea is to “maximize contruction opportunities while minimizing costs.”

The school board is expected to place the bond issue on the ballot for August during the next couple of months.

In other business at the work session, the board:

• Recognized the achievements of the students and coaches of the Odyssey of the Mind regional competition Feb. 5. Winning the glad hands were 42 students in Baker, Steeby and Pine Street elementaries and the middle school and high school. However, only the Division 3 team at the high school is eligible to cpete in the state tournament March 12.

• Approved a new three-year contract for purchase of natural gas, which Assistant Supt. of Finance and Operations Patricia Velie said would save the district between $19,000 and $21,000.

• Held a discussion about the board’s self-evaluation, in which it was determined the greatest work that needs to be done is in board-superintendent relations and developing trust with each other.