2026 Bond Election
This webpage is intended to provide factual information regarding the proposed bond election. The District does not advocate for or against any ballot measure.
For additional information, please contact the Business Office: Alyssa Garrett, Alyssa.garrett@coolidgeschools.org
Past Bond Projects
Bond Proposal
A yes vote would authorize the District to sell up to $39 million in bonds. Because bonds have to be expended by the district within 3 years of a sale, the sales are typically divided in to 3 smaller increments. For example: 3 bond sales over the course of 10 years to equal an amount less than $39 million.
The first bond sale, if approved, would be for $13 million. This is an amount the district is comfortable spending responsibly within the 3 year requirement.
Subsequent sales would take place based on need. This means, while there is authorization up to $39 million, that amount may not need to be sold.
A no vote would result in a decline in the secondary tax rate in 2027 from $1.23 to $0.98. The district is not recommending any drastic change or cut to current programs in the event of a no vote. Bonds are primarily used to add value to facilities and experiences, while other funding sources are targeted for operations, safety and functional building needs.
Tax Rate/Cost
School Capital Funding
What is a school bond?
A school bond is a voter-approved authorization that allows a school district to sell bonds to fund capital improvements and long-term facilities needs. Bonds are typically used for projects such as school construction, renovations, safety improvements, transportation, athletic facilities, and major infrastructure upgrades.
How is a bond different from the district’s regular budget?
Arizona school district operating budgets primarily fund day-to-day expenses such as teacher salaries, utilities, classroom supplies, and student programs. Bond funds are restricted by law and can only be used for approved capital purposes such as buildings, buses, technology infrastructure, and site improvements.
What can bond funds legally be used for in Arizona?
Under Arizona law, bond proceeds may generally be used for:
- Construction of new school facilities
- Renovation and repair of existing facilities
- Safety and security improvements
- School buses and transportation equipment
- Technology infrastructure and equipment
- Athletic and extracurricular facilities
- Land acquisition
- Furniture and major equipment
Bond funds cannot be used for routine operating expenses or employee salaries.
Why is the district asking for a bond?
The district is seeking voter approval to maintain and improve classroom and athletic facilities, student transportation, and safety needs that cannot be funded through the regular operating budget alone.
What projects are planned?
If approved, bond funded projects will be discussed and identified at a public forum (board work session). The first recommendation is to sell $13 million in bonds. The following projects would be discussed for consideration.
- Paying off our current Energy Performance Contract (EPC). This is a current lease agreement that provided the district energy efficient lighting and network connected thermostats to allow programming/energy savings. This pay off would put $206,00 back in to M&O annually.
- Improvements to the CHS Baseball/Softball complex. This includes lights for varsity fields, a new varsity softball field (there is currently only 1), access to the complex from 9th street, bathrooms and parking.
- Interior paint and carpet at Heartland Ranch. These are not improvements that would be covered by the School Facilities Board (SFB).
- Shade over the play structures at West kindergarten.
- Metal detectors that are mobile and can be used grades 6-12 or when needed (events etc.).
- Football grandstands at the CJHS football/soccer field. The current stands do not provide clearance to see over athletes on the field. They would be repurposed on other fields.
- CJHS outdoor sports scoreboards.
- Yellow bus and mini bus replacements.
- Student technology.
- Classroom furniture updates, as current furniture fails.
- Fee= Permits, architect fees.
Will bond funds be independently audited?
Yes. Arizona school districts are subject to financial audits and public reporting requirements. Bond expenditures must comply with Arizona law and are subject to public oversight.
How much will the bond cost taxpayers?
The estimated tax impact depends on the final bond amount, assessed property values, and state debt limits. The district will provide estimated tax information based on the average residential property value.
Does the district receive state funding for these projects?
Some projects may qualify for limited state assistance, but many capital needs must be funded locally through bonds or overrides. State funding is often insufficient to fully address major facility and infrastructure needs.
How long does a school bond last?
Bonds are repaid over time, through secondary property taxes. Repayment schedules vary based on the structure approved by the governing board and market conditions.
What is the difference between a bond and an override?
A bond funds capital projects such as buildings and infrastructure. An override provides additional operating budget authority for programs, staffing, and classroom operations.
Who decides how bond funds are spent?
The governing board oversees expenditures consistent with voter authorization, Arizona law, and district priorities. All expenditures must occur during public meetings and follow public procurement requirements.
Alternative Funding Projects
The projects above were completed with alternative funding received through the grant process.