Request comes as enrollment decreases
CHENEY – The school district is seeking voter approval for a $72 million facilities bond to fund a new elementary school and upgrades to other school facilties.
The bond, which spans 21 years, will be on the ballot for the Nov. 5 general election for voters in Cheney, Four Lakes, Geiger Heights, Airway Heights, and other areas within the school district.
The main project of this bond is the building of a new elementary school in Airway Heights. As of February of 2020, the school district purchased property on the corner of Craig Road and First Avenue where they will build the new school.
Besides the main project of a new elementary school, the bond would also fund land purchases for future schools, renovations to Cheney High School’s stadium to add bleachers and improve Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility, and upgrades to bus loops and kitchens at Salnave and Windsor elementary schools.
Other improvements would include connecting sections of buildings at several schools.
In addition, bond revenues would be used to acquire land for future secondary and elementary schools, as well as transportation sites.
A similar bond was proposal in February, with a higher tax rate of 52 cents per $1,000. The bond failed to meet the 60% approval threshold, garnering 54.5% of the vote. This time, the district has reduced the proposed tax rate and aims to provide clearer details about how funds will be spent.
“We understand that taxes affect people, especially in difficult times,” Ferney added. “We’re focused on being transparent about where the money goes and investing in our children’s future.”
If passed, the bond would add 45 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, which amounts to about $135 annually for a home valued at $300,000.
Currently, property owners pay $1.30 per $1,000 for school maintenance, $1.37 per $1,000 for existing bonds, and 7 cents per $1,000 for a technology levy. If the new bond is approved, the total would rise to $3.19 per $1,000, or $957 annually for a $300,000 home.
Superintendent Ben Ferney emphasized the need for proactive planning as the district grows. “As communities and developments grow, finding available land becomes more challenging,” Ferney said.
Airway Heights’ population in 2010 was 6,114 and in 2023 was 10,973 according to U.S. Census Bureau. The city has grown over 79% since 2010.
Cheney’s population has grown from 10,590 in 2010 to 12,620 in 2023 with a growth rate of a little more than 19%.
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