Master Facility Planning and Future Bond
Planning for the Future
To ensure our students have safe classrooms, and updated functioning facilities, Weld RE-1 is planning for the future facility and infrastructure needs of the district. Two of the challenges we face are the age of our buildings and our funding constraints.
Aging, Costly Buildings: Our schools are 50 to 76 years old, resulting in over $68 million in deferred maintenance. Since 2019, the annual cost of keeping these aging buildings running has increased sevenfold.
Declining Enrollment & Funding: Over the past five years, enrollment has steadily dropped across all levels. Because state funding is tied to enrollment, our district has lost roughly $3.8 Million since 2020, with further declines projected.
Addressing Our Aging Facilities: The Bond Proposal
To provide safe, modern learning environments and expand opportunities for our students, Weld RE-1 is researching a $219 million bond measure to bring before votes in 2028. By thoughtfully consolidating our secondary schools, we can pool our resources to offer much more for our students, including expanded Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. If passed, the bond would fund:
A New 6-12 Campus in Gilcrest: Construction of the brand-new Valley Middle - High School.
Platteville Elementary Conversion: Transforming South Valley Middle School into a modern Platteville Elementary School.
Upgrades in LaSalle: Essential additions and renovations to Pete Mirich Elementary School.
District-Wide Improvements: Replacing outdated school buses, modernizing classroom technology, and improving our athletic field complex.
Understanding the Tax Impact: Who Pays What?
Based on current property values, the tax impact of the proposed bond measure would be primarily carried by local industry rather than local residents. It is estimated that the oil and gas industry would fund more than 60% of the cost, while homeowners would be responsible for less than 10%. Most importantly, Weld RE-1 is committed to financial stewardship and even with this additional bond measure, Weld RE-1 will maintain one of the lowest school district tax rates in our region.
