Buchanan residents can have a big impact on the future of their community and their school district by voting “yes” to its bond proposal Tuesday.

Buchanan Community Schools made a smart move by lowering the price tag on its $31 million proposal that failed last May to $19.5 million. If approved, the bond will pay for extensive improvements to the middle school and Ottawa Elementary, and minor upgrades at the high school and Moccasin Elementary.

The bond would cost a taxpayer with a $100,000 home $5.42 a month, while a resident with a $200,000 house would pay about $10.80 per month.

This bond issue is known as “phase 1” of the project to improve the buildings and technology of the district, while a second phase bond would take place likely later to finish the work.

Like any bond proposal, public education is key. At least 40 public events were planned to inform community members before the election.

In a tough economy, we all learn to be more frugal and postpone purchases. It is understandable that some citizens believe that should be the case with the Buchanan district.

But what the district is doing is trying to remain marketable to students and parents in this area. Schools of Choice has made schools much more competitive because they are able to lure and lose students who live in their districts to other districts. Factors such as student-teacher ratio, class size, athletic programs, academic offerings and advanced technology play a role in how families decide where to enroll their children. And in reality, money can make these things possible.

A strong school district means a strong community. Schools put people to work. They draw families who buy houses, work in the community and spend money there. When a community has a strong district, people stay in that community.

Voting “yes” to the bond proposal is a win-win for everyone who lives, works and attends school in Buchanan.

This editorial represents the views of the editorial board.