North Kansas City Proposes $175 Million School Upgrade

Construction of North Kansas City school facilities

News Summary

Northeast Kansas City is preparing for the upcoming election on April 8, where voters will decide on a $175 million bond issue aimed at enhancing North Kansas City Schools. This initiative is presented as a ‘zero tax increase bond issue,’ meaning residents won’t face increased property taxes if approved. The funds will support new facilities, including a performing arts center, school renovations, and safety improvements, ensuring a better educational environment for students.

North Kansas City Set for a $175 Million Educational Upgrade!

As Northeast Kansas City gears up for the upcoming election on April 8, voters will find a significant proposition on their ballots: a $175 million bond issue dedicated to enhancing the facilities of the North Kansas City Schools district. This proposed bond is not just any ordinary funding request; it’s being called a “zero tax increase bond issue.” That means there won’t be an increase in property taxes for residents if the bond is approved!

What’s on the Table?

The purpose of this bond issue is to make substantial improvements to school facilities throughout the district. If approved, funds will be allocated for a variety of projects, including the construction of a new performing arts center, much-needed school renovations, and other exciting projects that aim to foster an enriching environment for students.

Specifically, the plan outlines borrowing money through general obligation bonds to pay for various capital projects. The official language on the ballot will directly ask voters if they approve of issuing bonds for the proposed amount of $175 million.

Details That Matter

It’s also worth noting that voters will not be paying extra taxes for this bond. Instead, the district is assuring residents that the estimated current debt service tax levy—which currently stands at $1.3085 for every $100 of assessed valuation on real and personal property—will not see an increase. This effectively means that funding these upgrades won’t come at an additional cost to you!

The approved proposals will cover construction and renovations across specific schools in the district, and it will even include a budget for acquiring new school buses and other transportation equipment to ensure that students have safe and reliable ways to travel to and from school.

What Else is Happening in the Area?

North Kansas City Schools is not alone in seeking improvements. Other school districts in the Kansas City area are also placing significant measures on their ballots. For instance, the Kansas City Public Schools are proposing a hefty $474 million bond for infrastructure improvements—marking their first bond request since the 1960s! They’ll require 57% of the voter approval for this ambitious plan.

Meanwhile, the Lee’s Summit School District is proposing a $225 million no-tax-rate-increase bond issue, and Platte County is also pitching a “zero rate bond issue” aimed at high school rebuilds and enhancing elementary school facilities.

Independence City Council’s Ambitions

Over in Independence, the City Council is setting the stage for change with three general obligation bond questions, totaling $197 million. This question will include funding for important public safety initiatives as well as a fingerprint of progress in the form of a new Justice Center.

However, the proposals in Independence may see phased-in increases in property taxes, in contrast to the zero tax increase options posed by North Kansas City Schools and others. Adding to the complexity, the Park Hill School District is looking to secure additional tax increases to fund both teacher salaries and renovations, which could potentially impact residents’ tax bills down the line.

Community Support

Community groups, like the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, are leaning in on these proposals, encouraging voters to consider the positive impact that improved facilities will have on public education and essential services. As we approach the election dates, it’s essential for voters to educate themselves on these issues and make their voices heard.

So, mark your calendars for April 8 and get ready to make a meaningful choice that can shape the future of education in Northeast Kansas City. Are you in favor of investing in our children’s education and facilities? Let’s keep our eyes on those ballots!