FWCS Asks Voters to Fix Schools
By: Robert Bumsted
Updated: May 3, 2012
On Tuesday, Fort Wayne residents will vote on a measure to fund a $120 million school renovation project. Officials say 36 schools around the district are in major need of repairs.
For example, Harrison Elementary on the South Side is in need of new windows, and a new ventilation system. Officials say the masonry work is causing water to leak into the walls, as well.
If passed, taxes would increase for residents based on their property value. A home worth $90 thousand would see a tax increase of roughly 27 dollars. Officials say if the improvements aren't made, schools will be forced to continue patching problems which could cost more over time.
School referendums do not have a good track record in Indiana, however. Researchers at Indiana University say only one third of building improvement referendums have passed since the state began requiring them for large projects in 2008.
For example, Harrison Elementary on the South Side is in need of new windows, and a new ventilation system. Officials say the masonry work is causing water to leak into the walls, as well.
If passed, taxes would increase for residents based on their property value. A home worth $90 thousand would see a tax increase of roughly 27 dollars. Officials say if the improvements aren't made, schools will be forced to continue patching problems which could cost more over time.
School referendums do not have a good track record in Indiana, however. Researchers at Indiana University say only one third of building improvement referendums have passed since the state began requiring them for large projects in 2008.
