USD 261 board approves amended ballot language and resolution to proceed with bond election process

The USD 261 Board of Education voted unanimously to approve an amended resolution and updated ballot language to move the district toward a bond election.

Steve Chogrin, who introduced himself as managing director with the Wichita public finance office of Stifel, told the board the district had set a project budget limit of about $80.15 million (with an expected bond amount just under $79 million) and that he recommended amending the previously adopted ballot language to clarify project descriptions and protect the district’s priority under the state bond cap. Chogrin said other nearby districts are pursuing large bond requests and the board should not risk losing its position in the cap.

District administration said they removed wording that suggested building entirely new schools or purchasing land after board feedback; the revised language emphasizes additions, renovations and related capital improvements. Staff said the district will republish the legal notice and deliver the updated language to the county election officer to print on ballots as required by law.

Board member Jennifer moved to approve the amended resolution; the board conducted a roll-call vote with members Bane, Bennett, Fenster, Ramsar, Walters and Williams recorded as voting yes. The board chair indicated the motion passed, and staff will proceed with the state application and ballot publication steps in the coming months.

Chogrin also reminded the board that the district cannot advocate for or against the measure in its official capacity; district committees or private groups may promote the measure and would need to raise private funds for campaign materials.

The board then continued to other agenda items.