Columbia voters take to the polls today to vote on a tax levy increase and a potential 30 million dollar bond for public schools.
The bond will create funds to construct a new middle school and additions to two elementary schools. The renovations include the expansion of a cafeteria kitchen and the improvement of outdoor middle school facilities. The bond would also include repairs to roofs, windows, parking lots, heating and air conditioning and technology improvements.
The School District of Columbia is also looking to increase the tax levy by sixty-five cents. The increase would provide support to maintain current school programs, and increasing student enrollment.
Columbia resident Jackie Casteel said, “As our school having money for the programs, for the teachers, for everyday things that being more important to me than building in a shiny new school or cafeteria.”
Residents will also elect a new mayor, two out of the five school board positions as well as third and fourth ward city council positions. Boone County Clerk Wendy Noren said she predicts about one-fourth of the registered voters will go to the polls and vote today.