Questions & Answers
What is a school Bond?
A school Bond issue is used by public school districts to fund capital improvement projects. These measures are placed on the ballot by school boards to be considered and voted on by the public.
When is the Jay School District Bond Election?
The Bond election will be held on April 5, 2022. Last date to register to vote is March 11, 2022.
How do I register to vote?
If you are not registered, go to https://www.okvote.org to start the process online. They will then mail you a registration application within 24 hours; sign and date the application and mail it back. You can also pick up a voter registration form at the Delaware County Election Board Office located at 225 S 5th St. Jay, OK 74346.
Why do we have to raise property taxes to fund the school bond?
Most districts do not have sufficient funds to perform necessary expansion and improvements, particularly additions of new facilities. A specific millage pays Bonds (amount of the property taxes) applied to the bond debt. This increased millage by State law comes from voted increases in property taxes. Our best and almost only route in Oklahoma is to sell the bonds (incur the debt) and pay them back by increasing the millage.
What will the Bond fund?
This Bond will construct, equip, and furnish renovations and improvements to the Elementary School, High School, Field House and Wrestling Rooms, along with a new Football/Multi-Purpose Field and Track Stadium with seating for 2500 people. Included are two safe rooms open to students, staff, and the community.
Why is it the right time for a Bond?
The Jay community deserves safe spaces for our teachers and students. We have worked hard and made great strides since the last proposition by utilizing our available funds to complete several of the essential projects that were previously identified in the last bond. Unfortunately, our current needs are outside the realm of funding.
Will the Bond impact the entire district?
Yes, the improvements made will bring multi-use facilities that will impact the entire district and the Jay community.
What is the total amount of the proposed bond?
The Bond amount is $12.6 million including a construction cost of $10.8 million. The cost difference in the bond amount from the construction cost is due to the advanced funding. (See property tax chart for personal tax increase.)
How much will this cost me?
When will the project be completed?
We are still in preliminary talks, but the design team and construction manager will phase out the projects so we can see progress as soon as possible, with all projects completed within an 18-24 month timespan.
Will the Safe Rooms be open to the public?
Yes, however students and staff will have priority. If inclement weather arises after school hours, it will be open for community use.
What will happen to the Wings Track?
At this time, Jay Public Schools are collaborating with Cherokee Nation to move and replace the Wing's Track at another location when the bond passes.
When school or activities are not in session, the new track will be available to the public. This track will be 8 lanes and made of a soft, all-weather surface.
If we pass the Bond, will we just have to do another one in a few years?
As our community grows, the district will continue to monitor needs. There is always the potential need for additional space to support growth. However, we have a plan in place to continue using our funds to the best of our abilities.
I don't have a child attending Jay Public Schools, Why should I vote?
Even if you don’t have a child currently in the Jay School District, your property taxes help fund school bonds. The Bond will create spaces that can be used by the community.
Young people are the future workforce, homeowners, and taxpayers. Their education prepares them for the next step into adulthood, and the stronger their foundation the better their outcomes.
Who will build the facility and will they be on site?
Crossland Construction will be the construction manager on the Bond projects. They will have staff full-time on site and have ensured us that all projects will be completed, in budget and on time.