Description
The Township of Union Board of Education is seeking independent legal counsel to guide the district through a school‑bond referendum and subsequent debt financing. The selected firm must act solely as counsel—no underwriting, municipal advisory, or guarantee functions are permitted. Services span from pre‑referendum analysis of capital programs and financing options, through drafting referendum language, obtaining state approvals, preparing financing documentation, and delivering a closing legal opinion. The engagement is “as‑needed” throughout the referendum process and may extend for the duration of the school year.
• Perform legal review of capital project descriptions, cost estimates, and financing structures to ensure statutory compliance.
• Draft and review all referendum‑related legal documents (question wording, explanatory statements, resolutions, certifications, and post‑election certifications).
• Prepare applications, obtain approvals from NJ Department of Education and other state agencies, and create/review bond or note issuance documentation (trust indentures, tax opinions, official statements).
• Deliver a formal legal opinion at closing confirming the validity of the bonds/notes, proper authorization, and federal tax‑exempt status.
• Provide optional post‑issuance advisory services for amendments, additional authorizations, or related referenda.