Red yard signs have become a familiar sight across Helena this summer, bearing the message: “The time is now. YES! For Helena Schools.” Produced by a local advocacy group, these signs indicate support for a substantial school funding initiative. On Election Day, Helena voters will consider a $280 million bond request, one of the largest in the city’s history. The proposal has garnered widespread attention, as its rejection could force high school students to attend alternating schedules at a single school.
What’s happening tomorrow in Helena?
On Election Day, Helena residents will cast their votes on a multimillion-dollar school bond to fund essential improvements and new constructions within the district. This bond includes upgrades for Capital High School and new facilities for Helena High and Kessler Elementary. Helena High accommodates 990 students at 1300 Billings Ave., while Capital High serves 1,390 students at 100 Valley Dr. Kessler Elementary serves approximately 280 students on Helena’s west side. The bond also proposes constructing a district kitchen, a space for an alternative high school, and new athletic facilities.
Can people vote on Election Day? How?
Though many have already voted, Helena residents can still register and vote on Election Day at the county election office located at 316 N. Park Ave. Potential voters will need the Montana Voter Registration Application form and an approved ID. The office hours are from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
What will happen if it passes or if it doesn’t?
If approved, new facilities could be ready by fall 2028, with construction starting next August and lasting two years. If the bond fails, alternatives must be explored, potentially requiring a future request that may be costlier due to inflation.
Does it really all come down to a boiler?
The bond urgency partly stems from Helena High’s problematic boilers, which could lead to a building closure and a temporary shift of students to Capital High under split-shift schedules: 6 a.m. to noon for Helena High and noon to 6 p.m. for Capital High.
When can we start seeing the results?
Initial results will be posted online by 8:30 p.m., with final results expected the next morning. Official results will follow in two weeks after the canvass process.
How much money are we talking about? How will it impact my tax bill?
The ballot includes a $240 million bond for high schools and a $43 million bond for Kessler Elementary. Paying off these bonds could take 30 years for high schools and 20 for the elementary school. If approved, property taxes may increase by $220 annually for a $300,000 home and $506 for a $600,000 home. Kessler’s bond approval raises taxes by $40 and $91, respectively. Check the school bond website for precise tax impacts.
What else is on the ballot for Helena?
Also on the ballot are the Helena mayoral and city commission races. Voters will select one mayor and two commissioners, with final candidates advancing to the November General Election. For more details, see a sample ballot.
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