The referendum aims to address critical facility and infrastructure needs across the district, including safety upgrades, ADA compliance, HVAC and electrical improvements, and the construction of an elementary school addition to better align grade levels and accommodate future growth.
The referendum is intended to address specific infrastructure needs identified by the school district and school board. These needs are based on assessments of current facilities and aim to enhance safety, accessibility, and the overall learning environment for students. The decision to include these projects in the referendum reflects the school board’s commitment to maintaining effective educational spaces.
Thanks to existing debt falling off, we can reinvest $16 million with no additional tax impact. However, additional funds are needed to fully address the identified needs. The tax impact will vary based on the final project costs, which will be clearly communicated before the vote. For your tax impact, use our tax calculator here.
The estimated levy for the new debt is replacing the current levy for their existing debt.
For Question 1: Improvements include ADA upgrades, HVAC and electrical system replacements, new safety and security measures, asbestos removal, cafeteria renovation, and updates to CTE spaces.
For Question 2: The elementary school will receive a new addition that includes classrooms, special education areas, music and art rooms, a cafeteria, and expanded preschool space. Essentially making room for 4th grade in the elementary where they belong, creating room in the middle school for 8th grade students and freeing up space at the high school for needed programming.
The needs were identified through a comprehensive Facility Study and a Community Engagement process, including surveys and feedback from community members. The school board carefully considered this input in developing the proposed projects.
The projects in Question #1 aim to enhance learning environments by improving safety, addressing infrastructure, and modernizing facilities. The proposed changes in Question #2 include moving 4th grade to the elementary school and 8th grade to the middle school, which will help optimize space at the high school for additional programming opportunities. These adjustments are intended to better align the educational setting with the developmental needs of students.
If the referendum is approved, the school district will work with architects and contractors to finalize designs and timelines.
If the referendum does not pass, the district will need to consider alternative options for addressing the identified needs. While the issues will still be present, the district will evaluate the best possible solutions moving forward to ensure continued support for student safety and learning along with aging infrastructure within the budget limitations we have.
All registered voters in the school district are eligible to vote in the referendum. Please ensure your voter registration is up to date before the election.
The referendum will be on the ballot on November 5th. Voting will take place at your regular polling location. Learn more here.