For the second time in just 67 days, the Cheney School District’s $44.88 million construction bond to expand and renovate its high school appears headed for defeat. As of late Tuesday evening, April 28, the bond was receiving 54.20 percent yes votes, but needed a 60 percent supermajority for passage.
In a special election Feb. 10, the bond received a 58.43 percent yes vote, with 37.73 percent of school district voters returning ballots. After the February election was certified, the school board undertook an increased public information campaign on the need to pass the bond
The board took public testimony at a Feb. 25 meeting while the district conducted public tours of the high school, and posted an online survey on its website, receiving overwhelming positive response from 577 “patrons” on all aspects of the bond. If approved, the bond would add new classrooms, gym space, a performing arts center and a cafeteria/commons while alleviating hallway congestion and adding security measures.
Additionally, the Yes for Our Kids – Cheney School District Committee for Good Schools stepped up its get out the vote efforts. According to Spokane County Election Department numbers, just 34.82 percent of district residents had voted so far in Tuesday’s election.
John McCallum can be reached at jmac@cheneyfreepress.com.
Reader Comments(0)