Published: October 10, 2009 11:58 am      

School bond decided Tuesday

Voters head to the polls Tuesday, Oct. 13, to decide whether to approve an $11.4 million bond issue for Chouteau-Mazie Public Schools.

“It’s a perfect time for the projects while construction costs are low,” said Superintendent Dr. Lisa Horn, adding the great thing about the project is the money will be spread through each building in the district.

The proposal includes plans for a new addition to the Mazie gym as well as other building improvements, a new high school, a new addition to the Early Childhood building and improvements to the bus barn and the existing high school building. Money from the bond will also be used to improve the floors, ceilings and roofs of all existing buildings and purchase three new buses to begin replacing the aging fleet.

Dr. Horn said some people are questioning why they should approve a building project when Chouteau

just improved the school buildings.

She said Chouteau only repaired the extensive damage caused by the heavy rains and flooding in May. And she reminds voters, without the improvements, the schools could easily suffer the same kind of damage in a similar storm.

“This bond issue is about the kids, and doing what’s right for them,” she said. “Our students deserve to go to school in adequate

facilities.”

Dr. Horn said students in Chouteau are exceptional. She heard reports from teachers all over the district of students who helped save equipment and materials from the waters leaking throughout the school.

“Students should only have to focus on their education,” said Dr. Horn. “This bond issue will give our students nice schools, which are the heart of any community.”

If voters approve the bond issue, Dr. Horn estimated property owners would see an increase of $19.91 per year for every $100 of taxes paid, or $1.66 per month. The increased millage will be collected in May 2010, and the school district would seek bids on projects sometime in the spring.

Payoff on the $11.4 million bond would be scheduled for 2021.

”Let’s be here for the kids and vote yes on Tuesday,” she said.