A proposed bond issue for 2012 would have given Rockwood funds for renovations and additions totaling $43.5 million. However, after discussions concerning the proposed bond issue during the Jan. 19 Board of Education meeting, the total was decreased to $43.2 million.

The bond issue, now referred to as Proposition R, will be put on the ballot for taxpayers to vote on April 3.

$20,700 in administrative costs were cut out of the proposed bond issue. Also, in the “Health and Wellness Facility Improvements” category of the proposed bond, the Board decided to cut funds by creating the new nurses’ station at LaSalle Springs Middle School, but not restoring the vacated space.

The bond issue proposition divides this total budget into 20 categories based on the type of improvement or construction necessary.

Not every school receives benefits from each category. Lafayette will get updates inb eight of the groups.

Specifically, Principal John Shaughnessy said, “Lafayette will benefit from the bond issue package in the areas of technology infrastructure and the replacing of the main gymnasium floor.”

The bond issue would also provide Lafayette with updated fire sprinkler and fire code compliance, storm water overflow protection on the roof, field light pole replacement, energy saving initiatives and contingency.

“The money created by the passing of this bond issue will directly deal with the continued efforts of capital projects around our district as needed,” Shaughnessy said.

Shaughnessy stressed the importance of passing the bond issue, noting the down economy as a reason for the district being behind on improvements to schools.

He said, “The current financial strain that we are experiencing has put us behind on staying on top of needed improvements in many of our buildings, and the passing of this bond issue will allow the district to move forward with needed improvements.”

More information about the proposition can be found at: http://www.rockwood.k12.mo.us/propr/Pages/default.aspx.