Aug. 15 Election to ask residents for $15 million
A $15 million bond issue is being proposed by Newcastle Public Schools, and a resolution calling for a special election was discussed by the Newcastle Board of Education Tuesday night.
Because the actions taken were after the Newcastle Pacer print deadline, the outcome could not be determined, but because the bond issue has been in the planning stages for some time, approval is expected for a special Bond Issue election from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. August 25 for Newcastle school district voters.
Since bond issues are funded by ad valorem taxes on school district homes and properties, owners would want to know how they might be impacted.
NPS Board of Education President Tiffany Elcyzyn said, “We are cautiously optimistic that there are enough homes already built since the last bond, as well as the amount on paper projected to come out of the ground that will absorb any sort of increase.”
If approved by voters, a portion of the bond proceeds will be used on the following:
• $5,730,000 — Construct, furnish and equip a multiclassroom addition to include a storm shelter, restroom improvements in both the 2nd and 3rd grade areas, and flooring improvements at Newcastle Elementary School.
• $905,000 — Construct, furnish and equip track resurfacing, infield resurfacing, and site improvements at the Newcastle School District Track & Field Complex.
• $1,715,000 — Construct, furnish and equip improvements for an Aviation Program classroom expansion at Newcastle High School.
• $5,405,000 — Construct, furnish and equip a new soccer room building at Newcastle High School to include restrooms and concessions.
• $1,245,000 — Construct, furnish and equip parking improvements at the school district’s transportation facility.
