Residents in Helena appear to have narrowly rejected a bond proposal exceeding $280 million, aimed at upgrading the city’s aging schools, pending final vote counts. Late Tuesday, the vote remained too close to officially call, leaving school officials uncertain on the future of Kessler Elementary, Capital, and Helena High schools. The bond election results, expected Wednesday, will determine the path forward for necessary school improvements.
Preliminary numbers from the Lewis and Clark Elections office showed the elementary bond failing by a margin of 9,285 “no” votes (50.28%) to 9,182 “yes” votes (49.72%). Likewise, the high school bond was trailing with 9,649 “no” votes (50.21%) against 9,567 “yes” votes (49.79%).
High voter turnout was recorded, with approximately 52% of registered voters participating. Had the high school bond been approved, property owners would have faced annual tax increases of $220 for properties valued at $300,000, and $506 for those valued at $600,000, according to a district mill levy analysis. Similarly, the elementary bond would have raised taxes by $40 and $91, respectively.
Despite the high cost, some residents recognized the urgent need for addressing the school facilities’ deficiencies. Diana Devine, a Helena voter and developmental scientist, expressed her support for the bond, stating, “I supported the school bond so that we can support future generations.”
However, opinions were mixed. While some understood the necessity, others were concerned about the financial burden, particularly for elderly and retired residents. Kevin LaChere, a voter, opposed the bond, worried about increasing living expenses, saying, “I’m voting no, and I hope that rent doesn’t go up for me.”
Superintendent Rex Weltz had urged the Helena School Board of Trustees to propose the multimillion-dollar bonds due to aging facilities and deferred maintenance needs nearing $120 million. According to the district’s facilities master plan, significant deficiencies were identified at Kessler Elementary, Capital High, and Helena High. Kessler, dating back to 1936, was notably lacking in fire suppression and electrical systems.
Capital High, built in 1965, faces major maintenance needs, while Helena High, with a failing boiler system and structural issues, stands on the brink of unserviceability. If the high school’s boilers fail again in cold weather, the district might need to close Helena High temporarily, forcing a “split-shift” schedule with Capital High, impacting students and staff schedules significantly.
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