In advance of voting on Nov. 3, Godfrey-Lee Public Schools is hosting an online community meeting on Thursday evening to share information regarding its bond proposal on the ballot.
The proposed bond, which would primarily fund major reconstruction, additions and renovations to Lee Middle and High School, would raise $17.79 million for GLPS. It would require an increase of 1.67 mills for the 30-year bond, equivalent to an increase of $5.50 per month for the average homeowner in the district, if approved.
The bond would also be used to fund improvements including the following:
- Air conditioning throughout the building
- Safety and security upgrades
- Conversion of the existing media center into a flexible learning space and creating a new media center with community access
- Upgrades to the performing arts program, including a new band room
- New commons area for flexible use during the day and after school
- Adding a community wellness and resource center
- Technology equipment
Seven classrooms and the psychologist’s office at the school — approximately 10 percent of the building — were destroyed during a roof collapse in June 2019. It was determined that corrosion of bar joists that supported the roof structure caused it to disengage from the exterior wall.
A subsequent examination of the remaining portion of the building found that it was safe for occupancy. However, Superintendent Kevin Polston said, portions of the building are nearing a century old and will benefit from significant renovations.
The community forum will start at 6 p.m. Thursday. The link to join via Zoom is: https://godfrey-lee-org.zoom.us/j/93675968846
More information on the proposal can be found on the bond website: https://www.glpsbond2020.com/
