USD 353 Bond Issue FAQ’s

Members of the community are asking a variety of questions regarding the USD 353 bond. As questions are addressed, we will share them as well as the responses. The first public Q&A meeting will be held at 6pm, September 10 at Washington Elementary School. Residents are encouraged to attend.

Q: Will a yes vote shut down the Washington Elementary school?

A: The Bond issue is not connected to any decision regarding closing or repurposing a school. That topic has been discussed at the board table, but the two are not

connected.

Q: Is it true that the $22.6 million is a guess and might change later?

A: The total is based on specific cost estimates for each project plus architect fees and a 5% contingency for unforeseen expenses, bringing the total to $22,600,000. This cannot be modified at a later date.

Q: Why did we not budget for this? It’s all basic maintenance.

A: Although the district receives Capital Outlay dollars to help maintain its facilities, those dollars do not add up to the total repair/maintenance needed over time. That is the reason that school districts run bond issues periodically to make sure large,

expensive projects can be completed and facilities can be maintained.

Q: Why didn’t the school go with the most cost-effective quotes for repairs?

A: All bond work will be awarded by sealed bid, which will determine the actual price paid. However, the estimates used to determine the bond amount are based on similar projects completed recently in Kansas with allowances for inflation based on when the

actual work is expected to be completed. Contingency reserves of 5% have also been

built into the budget for unforeseen circumstances.

Q: Why are we spending money on this and not on students’ actual education?

A: The district has several types of funds. Operating funds such as the General Fund

and Local Option Budget are used for teacher salaries, textbooks, and instructional

supplies. The district has a small amount of funds called Capital Outlay to perform

building maintenance and construction. This amount is not sufficient for major system

and roof replacements, which is why districts run bond elections.

Q: Is it true that the bond money can be used for anything the district wants?

A: Bond funds can only be used towards projects outlined in the ballot question. This

includes new roofs, HVAC replacements, parking lot upgrades, window replacements,

and facility renovations across multiple schools. They cannot legally be used for

salaries, sports equipment, or unrelated programs.