Poplar Bluff schools seek No-Tax Bond issue for facility improvements

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo., (KBSI) — The Poplar Bluff R-I School District is seeking voter approval for a no-tax bond issue to fund various facility improvements and safety enhancements.

The bond issue, estimated to generate $11.5 million, will be on the April 8 ballot. If approved, the funds will be used to expand the Early Childhood Center, enhance safety district-wide, and address deferred maintenance, including the construction of a new bus garage.

The district emphasizes that the bond issue will not increase taxes, as it will extend the existing 18-cent debt service previously approved by voters in 2009.

According to Superintendent Dr. Aaron Cornman, the district’s financial management has enabled this opportunity. “A no-tax levy measure, if passed, would allow us to service more preschool-aged students and improve safety in all district facilities,” he said.

The district’s operating levy is expected to remain unchanged at $3.62 per $100 of assessed valuation, lower than neighboring districts.

Lorenzo Boyd, managing director for Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, noted that Poplar Bluff has an A+ underlying credit rating and is below its borrowing capacity, making this a favorable opportunity.