Bond Approvals Top $100M

Voters in municipal and school district elections across Oklahoma last week authorized the issuance of more than $100 million of debt while rejecting $14 million of bond requests.

The largest single package gaining voter approval was a $29 million proposal by McClain County Independent School District No. 29 to build a new high school in Blanchard, and a $150,000 bond authorization for new buses.

Woodward County Independent School District No. 1 won approval for a $17.6 million proposal, along with $350,000 of transportation bonds. The district will use the proceeds to finance additions at three schools, a new early childhood center, an agricultural education barn, an indoor batting facility, and band equipment.

Grady County Independent School District No. 1 won approval for a $12.8 million bond package for renovations to the high school in Chickasha and $500,000 of transportation bonds.

Voters in Rogers County Independent School District No. 2 overwhelmingly approved $10.4 million in bonds, including $9.2 million for district-wide improvements and repairs, and $1.2 million for transportation equipment. A $1.1 million bond package failed in April 2007, shortly after the district reported a $600,000 revenue shortfall for the 2006-07 school year.

Mustang voters rejected a $5 million bond proposal for street improvements, along with $2.9 million of bonds for a youth sports complex.

More than 70% of the voters in Cherokee County approved a permanent 1% sales tax for roads and public safety.

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