U.S. Voters will Decide on Numerous School Construction Bonds

New school funding initiatives hang in the balance.

Source : Joshua Woroniecki, Unsplash

October 5, 2024

Author : Alex Bustillos

This fall, voters across several U.S. states will decide on important school construction bonds aimed at funding the building and improvement of educational facilities. These ballot measures typically involve issuing bonds that allow the government to borrow money upfront for large-scale projects. The cost is then repaid over time through tax increases approved by voters.

In California, Proposition 2 seeks to raise $10 billion for the construction and renovation of public schools, including addressing hazardous conditions and updating facilities to meet modern learning needs. Supporters, such as the California Teachers Association and the Community College League of California, argue that these improvements are essential for the future of education in the state. 

However, opponents, including the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, express concerns about the potential for increased state debt and inequities in how the funds will be distributed. The state will contribute a significant portion- up to 55% for new construction and 65% for renovations- while local school districts are expected to make up the rest through their own bond measures. For many disadvantaged districts, this may be a challenge, as they often lack the local funding necessary to qualify for state contributions.

Meanwhile, in Oregon, voters will weigh in on the largest bond request in the state’s history. Portland Public Schools is asking for $2.9 billion to fund new high schools, curriculum materials, deferred maintenance, and athletic facilities. This ambitious project aims to address the pressing needs of the district’s infrastructure, but the sheer size of the bond has raised concerns. Significant tax increases and long-term debt are possible outcomes if the bond passes. In an effort to balance the needs of wealthier and less affluent neighborhoods, the district is working on refining the project list and may reduce the overall amount in the future. The bond election has been postponed to May 2025 to allow more time for planning and adjustments.

In Washington state, the Capital Budget includes $121.5 million for school construction, maintenance, and modernization projects. The funding sources include revenue from a carbon pollution auction and a capital gains tax. However, the potential repeal of the capital gains tax could jeopardize the availability of funds. Additionally, the state is not obligated to fully cover the costs of these projects, leaving school districts to shoulder a portion of the financial burden.

Kansas City Public Schools is asking voters to approve a $400 million bond to address deferred maintenance and improve learning environments. The district has over $650 million in outstanding maintenance needs and plans to use the bond to address inequities in school facilities and resources. Projects would include new construction, renovations, and the co-location or relocation of certain facilities. To pass, the bond requires approval from four out of seven voters. If successful, the bond would cost taxpayers about 64 cents per day for a home valued at $200,000.

In Idaho, the Pocatello-Chubbuck School District is seeking $43 million to rebuild a high school damaged by fire. The project is part of a larger $1 billion state bond program, and it has received strong support from the state legislature. However, securing state funding is crucial for the project’s success, and community backing, including the acceptance of possible tax increases, will be necessary for reconstruction to move forward.

These school construction bonds serve as critical investments in the future of education. In an era of inflation and rising project costs, schools are often overlooked in favor of infrastructure projects like roads and bridges. Many smaller states, such as Tennessee and New Jersey, are in dire need of new school buildings and renovations to their crumbling facilities. Voters will play a key role in determining whether their communities can provide students with the safe and updated learning environments they deserve.

Category : State Government Schools

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