Normandy School Board approves resolution for bond issue on April 6 ballot

Normandy School Board approves resolution for bond issue on April 6 ballot

On Jan. 25, the Normandy Schools Collaborative Joint Executive Governing Board approved a resolution to add a bond issue on the April 6 ballot.

To address the district’s longterm facility needs, NSC voters are being asked to consider Proposition V, a $26.5 million no-tax-rate increase general obligations bond, and Proposition T to increase the operating tax levy ceiling by $0.58 cents.

“Both Propositions V and T will provide funds to make needed improvements and upgrades at Normandy High School,” said Marcus Robinson, Normandy superintendent of schools. “Normandy High School is the flagship

campus of our district and the place where our students make their most cherished memories. We want to make these upgrades and enhancements to increase safety and security, and just as importantly, the learning environments for staff and students.”

Robinson also noted additional funds will be used to complete other construction, remodeling, repairs and improvements at the EleMiddle (grade 1-8) schools.

Earlier this month, Normandy hired a third-party vendor to survey residents, asking questions to provide insight into what they think about the district’s strengths, challenges, and facility priorities.

“The statistically valid survey results assisted our board in its decision to move forward with seeking a vote from patrons,” Robinson said. “Survey respondents overwhelmingly supported the no-tax-increase bond issue by 83 percent, and more than 55 percent supported the levy at the $0.58 cent level.”

Specifically, Proposition V will provide funding for:

• A new secure “connector” building that will link classroom buildings and ensure a safe environment by creating one point of entry to the campus.

• Classroom, cafeteria, and restroom renovations.

• A new, indoor access to the current detached cafeteria

as well as cafeteria upgrades.

• Renovations to the library.

• A new STEM classroom.

• Proposition T will provide funding for:

• Construction of a new community auditorium at Normandy High School.

• Lobby renovation, team locker improvements and spectator seating replacement at Viking Hall.

• Expansion of the West Gym at Normandy High School for the inclusion of additional practice courts.

• A new, artificial turf athletic field and a new, regulation size track at Nor-

mandy High School.

• Quad and parking lot improvements at Normandy High School.

• A new elevator and HVAC upgrades at Jefferson School.

• A new elevator, bus dropoff and HVAC upgrades at Washington School.

If Normandy voters approve Proposition V, school property tax rates will not increase. However, the $0.58 operating tax levy for Proposition T would cost the owner of a $100,000 home an additional $110 per year until the 20-year sunset.

More information about Proposition V and Proposition T will be available soon on the school district’s website, www. normandysc.org.