Willard voters said no to a $15.2 million bond issue for schools. The ballot measure was defeated by nearly 61 percent. If passed, the bond would have increased the 92-cent debt service levy by 15 cents. Property taxes on a $100,000 home would have gone up $28.44 a year.
Several projects were planned if the measure had been approved. Those included security upgrades, renovation of Willard Intermediate, more classroom space at Orchard Hills Elementary, a new multipurpose building at Willard High School and artificial turf at the stadium. The district also would have purchased property to accommodate future growth and built a new tennis court facility.
Dr. Kent Medlin, Willard School District superintendent, told KSMU the bond issue was needed due to an increase in the student population. According to Medlin, the district has grown by 1000 students in the last decade and 250 students since FY13.
