About the Bond
By Josie Painter
As Pierce citizens begin deciding whether to vote for or against the bond for the Pierce Elementary on May 12, it is essential to understand the importance of their decision.
The school board has called for a $9,905,000 bond to improve the elementary school through new additions and renovations, as several critical needs are not being met. Some of these needs include safety issues regarding picking up and dropping off students, a lack of security for doors and windows, insufficient security cameras, the absence of an electronic lock system, and an inadequate intercom system. There is no dedicated area for a lunch room and activity center, restrooms are outdated, there is little storage space, and insufficient classroom space. Through this bond, these issues will be addressed, which will provide a safer and more effective foundation for young students to learn and grow.
Though the bond allows for significant improvements to the elementary school, it is not without significant cost. Funding for the bond relies solely on property taxes, which can place strain on the community. If the bond is to pass, the levy would increase by 11.8 cents. To put this in perspective, residential properties valued at $100,000, $250,000, and $500,000 would have an annual tax impact of $118, $295, and $590, respectively.
When determining whether to vote for or against the bond, remember to not only look at what is in your best interest, but also the interest of Pierce. It truly comes down to a battle between education and livelihood. Do we value our children’s safety, academic development, and learning environment? Are we willing to put pressure on community members to pay higher property taxes? What will we as community members place the most emphasis on?
For more information, please attend community meetings that will be held on April 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the elementary school, April 29 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hadar Fire Hall, and on May 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the elementary school. There is also information regarding the bond online at pierceschoolbond.com.
