The third time appeared to be the charm, as voters approved the most recent Crofton School bond and tax, estimated at around $5.9 million for upgrades to the elementary and high school.
The Crofton Board of Education had attempted two bonds previously - $18.9 million in 2022 (defeated 711-392), $12 million in 2024 (defeated 669-439), and this bond was near an exact opposite, “unofficially” approved with 573 “for” the bond and tax, and 292 “against.”
The breakdown of ballots, which include voters in Knox and Cedar county inside the school district were:
FOR: 573 – Knox County, 403; Cedar County, 170
AGAINST: 292 – Knox County 191, Cedar County 101
According to Knox County Clerk Joann Fischer, there are a total of 1,550 eligible voters in the School District – 1,052 in Knox County and 498 in Cedar County.
595 ballots were counted on Tuesday evening and 271 for Cedar County – estimating around a 50% turnout for both areas of voters.
According to the Crofton Warriors Bond information, the following was expected to be the work done for the $5.9 cost:
New Construction:
1. 6 New Classrooms and 2 ADA Accessible Restrooms to meet the needs of the Elementary School
2. New construction is integrated into the existing Elementary Building
Safe Space/Storm Shelter: Kindergarten classrooms double as a FEMA approved storm shelter; 2,200 square feet; Benefits anyone in the building! Students, visitors, athletic events, etc!
Creates a Cafeteria and Serving Kitchen: removes it from the gym
Secure Vestibule & Entrances at the Elementary and High School (Safety and Security Grant covers the majority of this cost) New Roof over entire Elementary School along with other updates to meet code
On a $250,000 home, the additional impact was estimated to be around $162.50 per year, and on $1,000,000 of agricultural valuation, the annual impact was estimated to be $433.33 per year.