Answers to Frequently Asked Questions:
1. When is the Election?
The facilities bond measure will be on the mail-in ballot for this general election. Ballots will be mailed to registered voters the weekend of October 17 and must be received at the County Clerk’s Office no later than 8 p.m. on November 4, 2008.
2. Why does the district need to build additional space now after closing Riveria and Willow, and ending the EOU contract for Ackerman?
Those schools were closed during a time of declining enrollment, declining funding and declining birth rates. We are now averaging about 240 births per year, a 30 percent increase from the 1990s, and enrollments are increasing. The permanent classrooms in our elementary schools and middle school are now overcrowded. With operating and staffing costs increasing, the school board has determined that operating only three elementary schools is the most affordable option.
3. How will the public be assured that these bond dollars will be spent only for what is voted on?
The board will appoint a citizen oversight committee to review the scope of projects and expenditures for this bond. In addition, bond funds may be spent only on capital projects, and not on salaries, benefits or operations.
4. Why did the school board allow the buildings to get in such a need of repair and renovation?
The state funds school districts on student enrollment. During the years of declining enrollment, our first priority was to provide the teachers, support staff and learning materials that our students need, and to operate for a full school year. We continued to provide routine maintenance for our buildings, and have spent approximately two million dollars over the past seven years on facilities repairs and maintenance. However, our buildings are 30 to 85 years old, and the cost for major maintenance is beyond what our operating budget can cover.
5. Why are you asking for the bond now when the economy is down and the cost of fuel and groceries is increasing?
With the help of a citizens committee, we conducted a top-to-bottom review of our buildings. The committee recommended immediate action, based on the needs it identified. A survey of community members and testimony at public hearings supports going ahead now. In addition, because of a downturn in the construction market, the cost of these facility improvements should be low compared with recent years.
6. What is the district doing to conserve energy and reduce operating costs?
The district just completed an energy audit of its facilities. Several projects are currently being done that will pay for themselves over a short time span with energy savings. This summer we saved money on energy and other costs by operating on a four-day workweek. In the bond are large cost items that will save energy and operating costs. They are double-pane windows, increased roof insulation and energy efficient heating systems. In addition, the School Board has adopted a long-term facilities plan that will keep administrative costs down by operating just five buildings for at least the next 25 years.
7. How much will this cost me?
Estimated cost of the bond is $1.37 per thousand of assesses property value. This equates to $137 dollars per year in taxes for a home with an assessed value of $100,000.00.