HUMBOLDT Humboldt Board of Education members have some big decisions to make when it comes to making improvements in their school district.
Board members have targeted $10-$15 million in needed updates.
To fund the changes, the district will have to count on Humboldt residents to pass a new school bond.
Board member Josh Wrestler said the best time to pass the bond is before the current bond expires next September. Once taxes go down, its difficult to pass an increase, he said.
The problem for me is I am looking at 400-500 acres owned and even at just 42 cents an acre, that adds up over 20 years. I have no problem with it because I have kids going to school here. But youre going to have a hard time convincing people who dont, Wrestler said. People are going to say its a lot of money, because it is a lot of money.
Joe Works warned superintendent Kay Lewis to choose her words carefully when she presents the plan to the public.
You cant say, This is not much of an increase. People here already think they are paying some of the highest tax rates in the state.
A $15 million bond would increase the mill levy 5.879%.
The current $10 million bond will be paid off in September of 2020.
Lewis said the tax increase for a $15 million bond issue on a $75,000 home would be $4.23 per month for 20 years. A $50,000 home would increase property taxes $2.82 per month. Commercial property with a $75,000 value would see a tax increase of $9.19 per month, while one valued at $100,000 would see a $12.25 increase.
The current plan calls for a pick-up and drop-off lane as well as additional parking at the elementary school. They also want to build a new cafeteria at the elementary school.
Other improvements are new secure entryways at both the middle school and high school. The lunchroom at the high school would also be expanded.
Existing roofs at the elementary school would be replaced and the heating and cooling system updated. Projects to get the schools ADA compliant are also included.
I think we should go for the $15 million plan and see if they can do it for $12-$13 million. But you only have one shot, so we have to narrow this list down to items that are completely necessary, Wrestler said.
Board members hope for an April 2021 vote on the bond issue.
