MPS Bond Election Information
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How was the need for the bond election determined?
The Patrons Advisory Committee (PAC) - a group of residents, business leaders, parents/guardians, members of the Board of Education, and school staff - has been evaluating where our district is now and what our district’s future needs will be. As one of the largest districts in the state that continues to experience community growth, we are diligent in maintaining the balance of class size and availability of classrooms. With ever-changing technology advancements and increase of learning options, we must ensure our students have adequate tools and resources for their education. We want our students to have top of the line facilities where they may truly excel. MPS provides a comprehensive STEM/STEAM program for K-12 students. College & Career Readiness Centers would help create pathways for our students from high school to either college or their future careers. The components of this bond issue will propel student success regardless of our district’s and community’s population growth and learning options.
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When is the bond election, and where do I vote?
The bond election date is Tuesday, May 11, 2021. The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voting will be in precincts where all other elections are held. All registered voters living in the Moore Public Schools district attendance boundaries are eligible to vote.
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How much is the bond issue, and will approval raise my taxes?
This is a multi-phased bond with reoccurring funds to be issued throughout an eight-year period. A tax increase based on historical average is not expected over the life of the bond. This has been determined based on anticipated community growth of 3%, with this past year’s community growth of almost 7%. Two propositions will be on the ballot. Proposition 1: Construction, Renovation, Repair, Replacement Projects with a projected cost of $338,700,000. Proposition 2: Transportation with a projected cost of $8,000,000.
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How will this bond election benefit my child?
Every student, in every grade level, and in every school will benefit from this bond. Our schools have different needs due to when they were originally constructed, student population, etc. If the bond passes, the following needs will be met: additional classroom space, heat and air conditioning in facilities and gyms, enclosed practice facilities, roofs, media center(s), safety and security entrances, enclosed campuses, etc. ALL SCHOOLS will receive adequate, much-needed technology and safety/security upgrades to support the educational needs of students well into the future.
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How do we know the bond funds are spent the way they are supposed to be?
Our district has a proven and trusted history of completing bond projects as promised. Of the bond projects since 1999, one hundred percent were completed on time and within budget. We are responsible stewards of our taxpayers’ money and will continue this commitment to our community.
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What percentage of voters must support a bond election?
The State of Oklahoma requires a super majority of votes cast. Therefore, at least 60% of those votes must be in favor of the bond election for approval.
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Can bond money be used for staff salaries?
No. The law only allows bond money to be used for capital improvements and certain instructional materials. This money cannot be spent on salaries, benefits, supplies, or any other general fund expenses.
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Can I still vote if I am going to be out of town on election day, May 11, 2021?
Yes. Applications for absentee ballots are available at the Cleveland County and Oklahoma County Election Board offices and available online at: www.ok.gov/elections. The application to receive an absentee ballot must arrive at your county election board office before 5 p.m. on May 5. The completed ballots must be returned to your county election board office by mail no later than 7 p.m. on the day of the election. (Postmark will not suffice; the ballots themselves must be at the county election board office by 7 p.m. on election day). Voters may cast an absentee ballot in person at their county’s election board office by 5 p.m. on or before Monday, May 10.
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What happens if the bond election does not pass?
Bond money is critical for construction projects necessary to accommodate student growth and ever-evolving learning needs. It is also necessary to provide maintenance and major repairs to schools and facilities. Without these bond funds, monies from other annual district funding sources would be decreased to accomplish the projects included in the proposed bond issue.