Although the Independence School District reports early feedback is strong for an up to $85 million bond issue on the Nov. 3 ballot, supporters are split on how those funds should be used.
There is strong support to build a fourth high school in the district, which would take up nearly all the funds from the bond, while others support a new elementary school on east side of the city with the leftover funds being used for various projects around the district.
“Thus far, people seem to be very receptive to a bond issue,” said Superintendent Jim Hinson at the Independence Board of Education meeting Tuesday. “The meetings have gone extremely well. People seem to be favorable of the idea.”
Construction of a fourth high school on the east side of the district would relieve overcrowding issues at both William Chrisman and Truman high schools. The project has gained momentum with community members in the last few years.
A new elementary school – significantly cheaper than a new high school – would help relieve overcrowding at several elementary schools on that side of the district. Major renovation and construction projects would also be done at almost every building in the school district with that bond option.
To place an issue on the Nov. 3 ballot, language has to be presented to the Jackson County Election Board by Aug. 25.
In the last month, Hinson and other district administrators have spoken to groups such as the Citizen’s Advisory Council, the Kiwanis Club, PTA presidents and a group of pastors from western Independence. Upcoming presentations will be made to leaders of the Independence Economic Development Council, the Independence Chamber of Commerce and the Truman Heartland Foundation.
“It has been very labor intensive, but I think it is beneficial at the same time,” he said. “We are not in the position to put something on the ballot without asking the community about it first, and I think they are appreciative that we are coming to them first.”
The catalyst for a November bond issue comes directly from the federal economic package. Through the package, zero percent interest bonds are available to school districts and other public entities.
That means that if a bond issue would be placed on the ballot, a portion could be eligible for the zero percent interest, meaning significant savings to the school district.
Board of education member Ira Anders said he thinks seeking public input before making a decision on the bond issue was a “good approach to take.”
“I think this practice has been appreciated by the people,” he said. “We are telling them the situation and what our needs are, asking them their opinion of what we should do. That was a good idea.”
A special board of education meeting will likely take place in late August to make a decision on whether a bond issue will be placed on the ballot. In addition, plans for what will be done with the money will have to be made.
Independence, MO —
