As the election season draws near, inaccurate rumors regarding the Italy ISD bond continue to grow. Perhaps the biggest one is the idea that construction at Stafford Elementary will take a back seat to additions and renovations at the high school. This is completely untrue.

The truth is that if the bond election is approved by the voters, the estimated tax impact of this bond is anticipated to be 35 cents on top of the existing 7 cents of the Interest and Sinking funds used for debt repayment. Those additional funds will allow Italy ISD to move forward with two phases of construction. We have deliberately chosen to proceed with construction in two phases in order to better utilize the taxpayer’s money. Phase 1 will begin as soon as possible after the passing of the bond election. Phase 2 will only take place after we see that planned student enrollment figures have increased, property values have increased, or both. Italy ISD wants to assure our constituents that we are being fiscally responsible with their entrusted tax money.

Phase 1 will add 10 classrooms to Stafford Elementary along with 2 science labs, a media center (library) and computer lab. Stafford Elementary will also have an addition of administrative and support areas to provide a secured entrance and new entry design with a covered drop-off area. Much needed mechanical, electrical, and plumbing system replacements will also occur to meet current safety codes and improve energy efficiency. These additions will cost approximately $5 million. Phase 1 will also add a new Ag building with 2 classrooms and a workshop at Italy High School for approximately $700,000. Construction of a new football stadium, track, and concession area with more restrooms with cost approximately $2.3 million. The total cost for Phase I of construction, including contingency, will total approximately $8.5 million.

Phase 2 will bring a new cafetorium for improved food preparation and a presentation area for band and One Act Play (OAP). The estimated cost of this facility along with contingency is $3.5 million. This will bring the total bond project to $12 million.

The truth is that Italy ISD wants stakeholders to be involved, and we want you to know the facts surrounding this election. The first informational meeting was held on Monday, April 6th, at the Italy High School band hall. A tour of both campuses was set to begin at 6:00 p.m. To ensure that you understand what is being proposed as well as have an opportunity to ask any questions, we will continue to hold more informational presentations regarding the bond on different dates. Two evening presentations will be held Thursday, April 16th, and Thursday, April 23rd. Prior to the meetings, we will conduct a tour of our facilities for those interested. For the tour, we will meet in front of the high school at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will then follow at 7:00 p.m. in the Italy High School band hall. We also have a daytime presentation at the Community Center on
Wednesday, April 15th, at 9:30 a.m. This is open to any and all citizens. Refreshments will be served by our National Junior Honor Society members.

A strong public school system is of utmost importance as our community grows. I encourage all voters to become educated on the facts of this bond election and take an active role in the education of our children.

As always, citizens are welcome to call the Italy ISD Administration Office with questions about the bond election at (972) 483-1815.