It is a difficult time for any ballot question asking voters to commit to new expenses. But we hope Aurora voters will give careful — and positive — consideration to funding requests from Aurora Public Schools.
The district is asking for a $215 million bond issue for building projects and a $14.7 million mill-levy override for operational expenses.
The good news is that the bond issue, which will go toward remodeling aging facilities and building a couple of new ones, will not cost taxpayers anything additional. Aurora Public Schools says it can refinance old debt and make the new debt payments without raising taxes.
The mill-levy override, which will pay for full-day kindergarten, salaries and technology improvements, would cost taxpayers about $10 per month for a house valued at $200,000.
It has been heartening to see the gains that Aurora Public Schools have made in recent years. Test scores are up and Superintendent John Barry has brought a refreshing sense of energy and purpose.
We hope voters will find a way to give the district the tools it needs to continue the good work.
