Copyright M Live Michigan
BYRON CENTER, MI — Voters on Tuesday approved a $110 million bond proposal for Byron Center Public Schools that will fund a host of renovations and upgrades across the district. The proposal was approved by a vote of 3,654 to 2,844 in the Nov. 4 election, according to unofficial election results from the Kent County Clerk’s Office. The bond proposal, which would not generate any new taxes for residents, provides funding to renovate classrooms and arts spaces, replace aging infrastructure, and build a new athletic stadium. Essentially, the proposal allows the district to borrow $110 million and repay it over three decades using existing revenue, the district says. “The proposal addresses capacity challenges that we have with academic spaces, some of our art programs, and some of our athletic facilities,” Superintendent Kevin Macina previously told MLive. “It also invests in infrastructure, things like safety, security, technology and transportation. Each project is designed to meet the needs and the unique needs of our individual schools and the growing population.” Here’s a look at the major improvements the bond would fund: Academics: Classrooms in the district’s Early Childhood Center, Marshall Elementary, Countryside Elementary, West Middle School and Byron Center High School would be renovated. Space for the district’s North Star Academy and special education programs would be expanded, and student technology would be upgraded districtwide. Arts: The fine arts wings at West Middle School and Byron Center High School would be renovated with additional rehearsal, multipurpose and storage spaces. The marching band’s access to a turf field would be increased. Athletics: A new athletic stadium and four new baseball and softball fields would be built at the West Athletic Complex. The new complex would host football and lacrosse games and provide the marching band more opportunities to practice and perform. The district’s current stadium, Waddell Field, would be used for track, marching band practice and multipurpose activities across the district. Infrastructure: Worn out furniture, flooring, cabinets and HVAC systems throughout the district would be updated. In addition, parking lots would be improved, and the district’s transportation center would be updated. Election results remain unofficial until they are certified by the county board of canvassers.
