Big changes in store at West Bend schools with passage of $106.25 million facilities referendum

Big changes are coming to West Bend schools with this week's approval of a $106.25 million facilities referendum.

The referendum passed with about 57.5% of voters casting votes in favor, compared to about 42.5% of voters opposed. It will fund construction of a new Jackson Elementary School building, as well as the closing of two elementary schools.

Here's what to know:

Results:

What and how much: $106.25 million facilities referendum

Tax impact: An estimated $1.02 per $1,000 of fair market property value. The district's 2023-24 school tax rate was $5.20 per $1,000 of property value.

Scope of the project: The referendum would fund construction of a new Jackson Elementary School building, tackle other projects at buildings across the district, as well as fund the closing of Fair Park and Decorah Park elementary schools, Rolfs Education Center and the Education Service Center building.

Why it's needed: The district's 2023 facilities assessment found many buildings are aging, outdated and need over $200 million in capital maintenance and basic building needs. The district also wants to address declining enrollment, improve its educational environments, be more efficient with its resources and reduce long-term operating costs.

Last referendum: Voters rejected a $47 million facilities referendum in April 2019 that not only would have built a new Jackson Elementary School, but would also have funded improvements to West Bend East/West High School.

Contact Alec Johnson at (262) 875-9469 or . Follow him on X (Twitter) at .