Independence voters weigh $190 million school bond next month

Independence voters will decide next month on a $190 million school bond that district leaders say would fund three new buildings and major renovations across the district — without raising the local tax rate.

Under the proposal, the district would build a new elementary school in its rapidly growing eastern attendance zone, replace an aging middle school, and consolidate two outdated K–8 facilities into a modern campus on existing district land.

Roughly $40 million of the package is earmarked for safety upgrades, HVAC replacements and accessibility improvements at every existing building. Officials said the no-tax-rate-increase claim relies on retiring older bonds on a parallel timeline.

Supporters, including the local teachers' association and the chamber of commerce, say the measure is overdue given enrollment trends and aging infrastructure. Skeptics have questioned the cost-per-square-foot estimates and asked for more detail on long-term operating costs.

Two community information sessions are scheduled before election day. The district has posted full project lists, building-by-building cost breakdowns and an independent financial review on its website.