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IONIA – Voters within the Ionia Public Schools district narrowly passed a bond issue Tuesday, with 1,602 in favor and 1,551 opposed – a difference of only 51 votes.
Voters approved the district’s proposal to borrow $84,500,000, issue “general obligation unlimited tax bonds” and use the money for building, facility and equipment upgrades across the district.
Upgrade plans were focused on five key areas: safety and security, modernizing infrastructure, improving air quality, right-sizing facilities and improving theater, band and choir facilities.
According to state law, the money generated cannot be used for repair, maintenance, salaries or operating expenses. The district is already carrying $14,415,000 in outstanding qualified bonds and $696,893 in outstanding qualified loans.
These efforts will include ensuring that all elementary schools have secure double-door entryways, improved doors, locks and building access points and PA system upgrades.
Buildings around the district require windows, flooring, roofing, mechanical and building systems and plumbing work. Furthermore, none of the buildings in the district are air conditioned.
The most drastic change the bond proposal would fund is the closing of 103-year-old Emerson Elementary in favor of a brand new wing added onto Boyce Elementary.
Finally, the bond proposal would pay for the construction of a new performing arts center at the high school to replace the 400 seat Watt Auditorium at Ionia Middle School.
