School Bond and Budget Override Seek Voter Approval

The Douglas County School District is seeking voter support of a $100 million capital bond question to build new schools and renovate existing ones, and a $17 million operating expense budget question to increase the district’s operational budget.

The issues will be presented on the mail-in ballots that all registered voters should receive by mid-October.

The total cost of both ballot questions would amount to $41 per year, or about $3.50 per month on a $291,000 home, the average home-price in Douglas County.

Passage of the capital bond issue question will provide the means to manage the continuing explosive growth in student population (estimated at 2,000 new students per year.) It would pay for the construction of four new schools and the renovation of four existing schools.

While routinely outperforming other school districts in almost every grade in reading, writing and math, based on CSAP performance, Douglas County ranks last among neighboring districts in per pupil funding. Budget cuts totalling $8.8 million dollars during the 2003-2004 school year have resulted in loss of teachers and greater class sizes in neighborhood schools.

If the measure does not pass, it is estimated the district’s budget will be cut by another $30 million over the next five years.

Supporters believe maintaining the high quality of local schools at a low cost will enhance property values, noting that realtors often advertise reputable schools as a selling point in their listings.

Instead of a traditional walk-in election, this election’s ballots will be mailed. Anyone who voted in the general election in November of 2002 will receive a ballot. Be on the look-out for your ballot and be sure your vote is received by November 4.

Any questions regarding your eligibility to vote should be directed to the Clerk and Recorder’s Office in Castle Rock at 303-660-7444.