Franklin County Genealogical Society, P.O. Box 353, Ottawa, Kansas 66067
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election: 15 Nov 1963

Will Vote On School Bonds Second Time

["Ottawa Times," 03 Dec 1962, p5c3]

A resolution from the Board of Education stating the need to build, furnish and equip a new high school at a cost of $1,680,000 was presented to the city commissioners Wednesday evening. The resolution asked that a proclamation be made setting the date for a special election for the bond issue as January 15, 1963. The governing body approved the resolution.

The officials explained that anyone who did not vote in the last general election must register to be eligible to vote at the special election. The registration books are open during regular business hours at city Hall. From December 31^st to January 4^th the books will be open each day until 9:00 p.m. to afford everyone an opportunity to register. The books close at 9:00 p.m. January 4^th.

The school bond issue has been of primary importance to all residents of District 30. The issue was defeated by a small number of votes i the last general election. The land for the proposed school has been bought and paid for. The location is in the southwest area of Ottawa.

The supporters of the new school point out the need of additional space. Since there are only about 200 more students in Ottawa schools than there were fifty years ago, this need is created by the increased number of subjects taught in the school today.

The opponents of the new school bring up the issue of increased taxes and many feel that the school should be more centrally located.

Everyone will have an opportunity to make a choice when the polls open for the special election January 15th.

School Bonds Voted Down

["Ottawa Times," 21 Jan 1963, p1c3]

The Board of Education of District 30 issued a statement at their meeting following the second defeat of the $1,680,000 bond issue for a new senior high school building and remodeling at the present building. The vote was 1,633 in favor of bond passage and 1,791 against, a margin of 158 for the no vote. Quoting the board of education.

"Our bond proposal has been turned twice by the voters. It is obvious there is something about the recommendation that the voters do not like. Therefore, the Board of Education is going to reexamine the possibilities and will have an announcement at a later time.

"The High School situation is extremely serious and we would appreciate suggestions from any citizen on the solution of the problem."