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School Bond Issues Are Getting Closer To The Ballot

April 4, 2001
By: Seth Bachelier
State Capital Bureau

The debate over passing school bond issues with a simple majority moves closer to the ballots. But, not without resistance. Seth Bachelier has more from Jefferson City...

Story:
RunTime:
OutCue: SOC

Only 12% of registered voters in Boone County took part in this week's municipal election.

And retired professor Fred Springsteel says this example of low voter turnout makes the issue of a simple majority for school bonds a bad idea.

Actuality:springs
RunTime: 10 seconds
OutCue: "school's bond rating."
Contents: Frederick Springsteel says that with not many people voting, a simple majority won't accurately represent the population and could hurt bond ratings.

Currently, Missouri is one of only nine states that doesn't pass school bond issues with a simple majority.

And some legislators say a simple majority would make funding schools much easier.

From Jefferson City, I'm Seth Bachelier.

The issue of passing school bonds with a simple majority moved closer to the ballot Wednesday. But, other options were explored. Seth Bachelier has more from Jefferson City...

Story:
RunTime:
OutCue: SOC

If school bonds issues aren't passed by voters, schools can obtain lease purchases.

These are bonds from nonprofit organizations, not school districts.

And they are easier to get.

But, Republican Senator Anita Yeckel says going through nonprofit organizations has some setbacks.

Actuality:yeckel
RunTime: 7 seconds
OutCue: "expensive, less desirable."
Contents: Anita Yeckel says that lease purchases have a lower rating than school districts, making them more expensive and less desirable.

Currently, Missouri is one of nine states that doesn't pass school bond issues with a simple majority.

And some legislators say a simple majority would make funding schools much easier.

From Jefferson City, I'm Seth Bachelier.