Voters say Yes to Roads and Schools
In the off-year election held November 4, state voters generally chose “no.” No to expanding gambling in the state, no to shifting the tax burden from commercial to residential property, and no to the state water conservation board borrowing up to $2 billion. Douglas County voters said no to extending limits for County officials beyond two terms.
Voters were, however, in favor of schools and roads. Here is a synopsis of the election results in Douglas County and how they might affect Castle Pines:
Both 3A and 3B were narrowly approved. These measures give Douglas County schools a $100 million bond to build and renovate local schools, and a budget override of $17 million to replace programs and staff.
The bonds will work to alleviate growing pains in the County outside of CPN. Specifically, five DC Schools will receive remodels or additions: Sand Creek, Eagle Ridge, Rock Ridge, Cherokee Trail, and Mountain Vista HS. Four new schools will be built: a new elementary school in Highlands Ranch, a new middle school and high school in Castle Rock, and a new high school in Parker. The construction is projected to accommodate growth through 2008.
Buffalo Ridge Elementary Principal Barry Meigs said that, pending budget approval, he hopes to replace the Technology Specialist, and reinstate Track D at his elementary school.
In other school news, a majority turnover of the seven-member Board of Education took place on November 18, when four new directors were sworn in. Huntington Ridge resident Kristine Sherman was elected to a two-year term on the School Board, representing District E, with 45% of the votes cast.
See article on roads.
