Special Election Next Month in Williston | Video

Evan Kruegel | 11/14/2012

Political ads are finished, yard signs are gone and the Genreal Election is officially over. But for voters in Williston, a second election is less than a month away. A special election has been issued by the school district, asking voters to approve a property tax increase to fund some significant projects.

"Over the past four years we`ve added 650 students to our school district, but regardless of that, we have old buildings,” said superintendent Dr. Viola LaFontaine.

The measure would allow the district to raise up to $55 million.

"It allows us to purchase bonds with the money that the taxpayers would be paying for the next 20 years."

The main project would be the construction of a brand new middle school. The district also wants to expand Rickard Elementary, renovate the high school, and purchase more property for future school endeavors. Many of the schools in use were built in the 60s and 70s, so it`s time for an upgrade.

"We`re looking to build schools that will be here for the next 50 to 70 years," said LaFontaine.

LaFontaine says the reason for a special election so soon after the general election is quite simple.

"Usually bond referendums are on special elections. They can be at the same time, but at that time we weren`t ready to have it on the regular election period."

The district needs the money, but property owners can expect to see a significant hike in property taxes if the measure is approved.

"It will probably raise about $337 a year on a $100,000 home, and the bond is for 20 years."

That would mean owners of a $100,000 home, could end up paying north of $6,000 in additional property taxes over the 20 year period. No matter how many people turn in a ballot, the district needs a 61 percent yes vote for the measure to be approved.

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