Kalamazoo Public Schools will ask voters in May to decide on passing the largest bond proposal in the district's history. A 1.25 mil increase would cover the proposed $96.7 million in bond sales. The dollars would go towards numerous facility upgrades throughout the district, including:
- Roof, boiler, parking lot upgrades, new buses, and equipment ($44.8 million)
- New technology ($9.6 million)
- The replacement of Edison Environmental Academy, which is housed in a 1924 school building that will be demolished ($25.7 million)
- Additions to the district's alternative High School - Phoenix High - new classrooms, restrooms, offices, and gym ($6.4 Million)
- A new central kitchen facility to serve the district ($5 million)
- Security Improvements ($4.2 million)
I don't like it when the old schools just get demolished (instead of repurposed) but it is 94 years old and it would probably not attract any developer for a while due to the costs of rehabbing it and the location.
Quote:
Kalamazoo puts largest bond in school district's history on May ballot
Malachi Barrett | MLive
January 26, 2018
KALAMAZOO, MI - Voters will be asked to pass the largest bond proposal in the history of Kalamazoo Public Schools. Thursday, the Board of Education unanimously voted to place a bond proposal on the May 8 ballot. If approved by voters living in the district's jurisdiction, the 1.25-mill increase would raise $96.7 million to replace Edison Environmental Science Academy, build additions to Phoenix High School and pay for upkeep and upgrades of facilities in buildings throughout the district. It would cost the owner of a $100,000 home $62.50 each year. The bonds would be paid off in two 19-year segments, with both being paid off by 2040...
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