Boulder's $296.8M Maintenance Referendum

Amy Bounds:

Supporters of Boulder Valley's measure say the hefty price tag is the result of cuts to the district's maintenance budget, along with an average building age of 43 years. The combination, they say, has led to schools that are in bad shape.

"We have a lot of old buildings," school board member Ken Roberge said. "We've put our money into the classrooms. We've made the trade-off. At some point, you have to do renovation."

But opponents are skeptical.

Fred Gluck, a school volunteer whose children went through Boulder Valley schools, said he's campaigning against the measure because he no longer trusts the district to keep its promises.

"I support the schools, the teachers and the kids, but I do not support the district administration," he said. "It's a lack of accountability, lack of clear oversight and a lot of money."

The last Boulder Valley bond issue totaled $63.7 million and was approved in 1998. Voters also approved an $89 million bond issue in 1994 and a $45 million bond issue in 1989.

In the past few years, voters also have said "yes" to a $15 million-a-year tax increase to boost the district's operating revenue and a transportation tax increase that frees up money for new computers.

Boulder Valley School District links & information.

Posted by Jim Zellmer at October 1, 2006 8:55 AM
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