FAQ's
A bond measure is like a home mortgage with principal and interest to be paid off over a set period of time. The State of Oregon does not provide funding to school districts for school construction, building improvements and preservation of facilities. School districts in Oregon use bonds to finance these capital expenses and large maintenance projects.
No. The Oregon Department of Education does not provide funding for school construction or major renovation. It does, however, provide the dollars that we utilize to deliver instruction to students and operate.
Oregon’s school funding model is somewhat unique. The legislature allocates dollars each year for teaching and learning, but construction of new schools and the modernization and preservation of existing schools is the responsibility of the local community. Funds for capital construction can be raised through elections and the support of community members for local tax levies.
Oregon is one of the few states in the nation that does not provide direct funding support from the state for building schools or major capital renovations. School districts are expected to finance these projects with general obligation bonds (construction bonds) authorized by the district’s local voters.
Our school district works hard to provide an excellent education for every student. Unfortunately, many of our school buildings need help including repairs to basic building systems past their usable life, better spaces to learn and grow, and critical safety, security, and health improvements.
The Forest Grove School Bond is a necessary investment in our future that, if passed, would make improvements to EVERY school in the district.
The proposed bond is estimated to increase the current tax rate by $1.50 per $1,000 of taxable assessed value, which is different from real market value.
A property’s assessed value, (different from real market value) is the value used for determining the property owner’s tax liability.
No. All funds raised by the bond will go to improve schools in the Forest Grove School District and they can only be spent on projects approved by voters.
No. The district will continue to maintain school properties but the proposed projects will not occur.
Communities with good schools can impact home values, encourage people to stay and invest in the local area, and can supply the local economy with better skilled workers. Additionally, good schools can improve community pride, connections, and a sense of belonging.
A community with good schools can positively affect home values, area pride, business attractiveness and help shape the future workforce. Students can go on to be skilled workers and engaged citizens that contribute to the local economy and community in various ways.
School facilities provide community organizations gathering spaces for sporting activities and various events. Our schools have been rented on various occasions for major events and bring in visitors to our community, who spend money at our local restaurants, hotels, and businesses.