Tulsa voters will decide in one week on a $140-million school bond issue proposal

Monday, November 5th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Sixty new buses are included in a $140-million Tulsa Public School bond package voters will decide a week from Tuesday. News on Six reporter Glenda Silvey says there are two other categories of the bond proposal.

Marshall Elementary is one of 13 schools targeted for complete renovation. The school has flooding problems and needs air conditioning and other cosmetic repairs. Wright Elementary, built in the 50's would receive major exterior repair. Marti McCain, Wright Principal: "We have tile falling off the building, and we have exposure now to our windows that we didn't have in the past, so we need new windows that are energy efficient and not loose that might come out.â€

Nathan Hale High School will undergo the most extensive renovation in the facilities portion of the bond proposal, which also includes renovation or repairs to 31 schools sites. The district says the 2001 bond strictly follows the 20 year plan a citizens committee developed in 1996, and will not raise taxes. Bob LaBass with Tulsa Public Schools: "The only variance we made - we added one school when we brought Eugene Field on to the list, but other than that, all the other schools we are addressing were on schedule for this bond." LaBass referred to the only new school proposed in this bond issue, Eugene Field in west Tulsa.

The bond also includes expansion of 11 libraries, textbooks and technology. One parent, Tony Brown says he will vote 'yes.' "Well, it's obvious when you go around to some of the different schools and talk to some of the parents and everything that it's something we really need. We need to invest in more education and our kids."

There's no organized opposition to the bond proposal, but supporters say they're concerned that too many voters may just assume the bond will pass, and not turn out to meet the 60% majority required for passage.

The election is November 13th.