Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Star Reports Hamilton Southeastern Considering May Referendum to Raise $95 Million

From the Indianapolis Star:

Hamilton Southeastern School District may propose a May 7th referendum to raise $95 million to increase space at its two high schools.

Officials expect Fishers and Hamilton Southeastern high schools to reach capacity in a few years as elementary enrollment continues to grow. The building add-ons would create space for an another 1,000 students at each of the schools increasing their capacity to 3,700 each.

Raising property taxes for additions instead of constructing a third high school is the less expensive route, district spokeswoman Marianna Richards said.

"We have a bubble coming up," Richards said. "Third grade is out biggest class. In the next few years we will be a above the capacity at the high schools."

A public forum to discuss the plan is set for 6:30 p.m., Wednesday at the Delaware Township Government Center, 9090 E. 131st St.

If voters approve a referendum, homeowners with a house valued at or above $230,000 could pay between $159 and $282 more annually in taxes, according to a district presentation.
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http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2013303190094