IPS Board Approves Referendum Proposal
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe IPS Board of School Commissioners has approved resolutions to put a $52 million capital improvement referendum on the November general election ballot. If approved by voters, the referendum would be used to fund the IPS Safety and Modernization Project.
The capital request was lowered from the original proposal of $200 million. The funding would tackle some of the district’s most dire maintenance needs and provide safety and security upgrades at all IPS-owned school buildings, including:
- Enhanced exterior lighting
- Technology upgrades
- Hardened exteriors
- Classroom safety upgrades
- Upgraded emergency communication system
The district says the majority of deferred maintenance and construction projects, energy efficiency and technology upgrades that were included in the original proposal will be delayed.
"The administration and commissioners acknowledge the changing nature of public education, particularly providing a safe and secure environment for students and staff," said IPS Superintendent Lewis Ferebee. “We need additional resources to respond to the changing school environment, while many of our facilities need to be updated in a way that aligns to our proactive and preventative mindset."
IPS says if the referendum is approved, the estimated taxpayer impact on a home with a market value of $123,500 would be $1.33 per month. The taxes would only apply to property owners in the IPS district.
The referendum will be presented to voters November 6 during the 2018 General Election. You can learn more about the project by clicking here.
