School district seeks levy for building repair, upkeep

Voters in School District 193 will be asked to "continue their investment in safe, well-maintained schools" during a special election May 16.

A proposed levy would raise funds over a 5-year period to implement necessary repairs and improvements to the district's facilities and grounds.

The current 5-year levy used for the same purpose expires this year. Under the proposed levy, taxpayers in the District would invest a maximum of $1.15 for every $1,000 of property value, or $115 a year for a $100,000 home. The expiring levy had the same levy rate and structure.

The school facilities levy dollar amounts being proposed are designed to follow anticipated market value growth in Elmore County. So, while the dollar amounts increase, the levy rate cap stays the same ($1.15 per $1,000 of assessed property value). The revenue generated will gradually increase each of the five years as long as assessed market values increase. The taxpayers will pay the lesser of the dollar amount or levy rate of $1.15 per thousand.

"By carefully managing the school budget, the School District has been able to make necessary repairs and improvements to our building and grounds," Superintendent Tim McMurtrey said. "Our schools reflect that well-spent investment.

"School children in District 193 have had the benefit of a safe, effective learning environment that's to the support of the community."

Critical safety issues have been addressed with funds from the previous levy, including:

* Removing asbestos from school buildings;

* Upgrading fire alarms;

* Improving handicap accessibility;

* Remodeling projects at all schools and Tiger Field.

School facilities levy funds are kept separate from the district's operating budget. The levy may not be used for items such as:

* Staff salary or benefits;

* Textbooks;

* Utilities;

* General classroom operating expenses.

"Just like older homes, older schools require more upkeep than newer buildings," McMurtrey noted. "There are 10 schools in School District 193. With the exception of Phase I of the high school built in 1998, the average age of the schools is 41."

He went on to note that "carefully planned maintenance and timely repair can protect the community investment in these buildings. Budget conscious renovations and other improvements have made our schools showcases of our community pride.

"Well-kept schools send a message to our children and staff that our citizens care about education. This levy is our promise that we will continue to provide a safe, learning environment for our students."