by Parker H. Jimison
The hotly contested $17.9 million bond meant to overhaul the Shepherd School campus was shot down by voters on Tuesday night, May 7th, with the bond for the elementary school failing 49%-51% and the bond to remodel the high school failing 47%-53%.
For many voters it seemed to be the increase in property taxes that was the biggest deterrent, with a projected extra $244 per $100,000 assessed home value. With the kindergarten building condemned and the elementary building so full that some hallways are being used as classrooms, Shepherd Schools Superintendent Scott Carter has previously stated that the school district could potentially bring in portable classrooms, if necessary. When reached for comment, Carter said that “this bond wasn’t driven by me or the school board, it was driven by our community. We’re sorry it didn’t pass, but the improvements it would’ve provided are still in need. We will most likely be coming back to this bond at the earliest opportunity we can.” Further options will be discussed at the School Board Meeting on May 8th.
In a huge turn of events, Billings School District 2 passed their first mill levy in 12 years by a 60%-40% vote. This new funding will be used to buy badly needed new textbooks and hire career counselors for all three high schools in the district. SD2 Superintendent Greg Upham praised the outcome and has said he hopes this begins a trend of consistent passage for future levies.
