What are Question 1 and Question 2?

What is Question 1?

Question 1 seeks to create and maintain a competitive salary and benefits package that is imperative to recruit and retain quality personnel. 

Salaries and benefits account for approximately 80% of the operating budget.  The remaining 20% is comprised of goods and services that, in general, will continue to experience increased costs in the coming years.

What is Question 2?

Question 2 is a no tax rate increase bond issue for $45-million. The funds will be used for the purpose of providing funds for various improvements which include:

• Grandview High School’s(GHS) industrial technology area, 
• GHS Bulldog Stadium visitor side renovation, 
• GHS cafeteria remodel, 
• District fine arts area renovations; 
• Complete district athletic facility improvements;
• Remodel restrooms and complete a new gym and fine arts addition to the Martin City school;
• Install new windows at Grandview Middle School and Meadowmere Elementary;
• Complete playground improvements;
• Renovate locker rooms at all middle and high school sites;
• (to the extent funds are available) complete HVAC improvements, camera system replacement, card key access system installation, roofing repairs and replacement, hallway and floor and ceiling improvements plus other small projects (such as musical instrument purchase) and improvements to the existing facilities of the District.

Why are Question 1 and Question 2 on the ballot?

• Based on a three-year forecast, the future financial health of the district is dependent on either an increase in revenues or a reduction in expenses.  Property taxes and State Aid are the largest sources of revenue for the district.

• The district is not experiencing a significant amount of new construction, and we are limited in the tax increase that is allowed on existing properties. 

• The pandemic resulted in a reduction in State Aid last year and the beginning of this year.  While State Aid may be restored by the end of the current year, we do not anticipate sizable increases for the foreseeable future.

• A competitive salary and benefits package is imperative to recruit and retain quality personnel.  The ongoing increases that will preserve our current competitive position exceed the anticipated increases in revenues. 
• Salaries and benefits account for approximately 80% of the operating budget.
• The remaining 20% is comprised of the cost of goods and services that will continue to increase in the coming years.

• It’s been 17 years since the district has asked taxpayers for an increase. In 2004, district taxpayers approved a tax levy increase.  Through sound fiscal practices, we have maximized the use of that increase to stabilize district finances well beyond the years that were initially projected.  

What will Question 1 and Question 2 Cost ?

What will Question 1 cost homeowners?

Will Question 2 raise my taxes?

Question 2 will not raise taxes.  It is a no tax increase bond issue.