10. For the average taxpayer, it will cost about $15.00/month.

9. If you are over the age of 65 or if you qualified for tax credits in your most recent tax filing, the cost should be lower for you. Because of all of the variables –— age, income, value of your home, etc. — it is extremely difficult to predict exactly how much.

8. Our buildings are 50-77 years old – they need improvements.

7. We have several efficiency improvements in the bond issue, such as new windows, mechanical systems, etc. But we are also going from 11 buildings providing instruction to eight. This will also be more efficient, right size the district, and free-up dollars for the classroom.

6. Interest rates are very low right now. This will reduce the interest payments over the life of the bonds. There may never be a better time to pass a bond.

5. Our original estimate to fix everything was over $63 million. The Board knew we could not ask for that much. We cut out quite a few items to get to the $40 million. What we are left with are needs, not wants.

4. Hopefully, you have had an opportunity to visit New Tech. With the passage of both proposals we can improve every classroom for all students in all schools. We want equity for all students.

3. We need to equip our students with the appropriate technology tools to be successful in their next life transition.

2. Surrounding districts have voted in tax increases to improve their buildings. Don’t our students deserve the same?

1. And the No. 1 reason: Our schools are safe. However, we have the capacity to make them safer and more secure.

Thank you for your time and consideration in reading this. For more information, go to our website www.nilesschools.org. Go Vikings!

 

Dr. Michael Lindley is the Superintendent of Schools in Niles.