Independence schools propose new PreK–8 and a mixed bond-income tax for May 2026 ballot

The Independence Local Schools superintendent on Monday presented a proposal to build a new PreK–8 school and described a financing plan that would pair a 0.75‑mill bond with a 1% school district income tax on the May 2026 ballot.

"Our buildings have served generations of independence families," Superintendent Kelly Kogan told the council, arguing that aging roofs, corroded pipes, limited HVAC and non‑ADA‑compliant spaces make renovation risky and disruptive. The district’s pre‑bond planning shows a proposed building of about 125,530 square feet with a per‑square‑foot estimate of $425 that the district says includes furniture, technology and contingencies.

Kogan said the district closed Independence Middle School recently after a corroded pipe leaked through the floor and described repeated roof and plumbing failures as evidence the district needs long‑term solutions, not piecemeal repairs. "Renovation brings unknowns," she said, noting phased renovation would require costly swing space and could compromise safety and learning.

Treasurer Jen Knapp summarized the district’s funding picture and options. She said one mill in the district generates about $602,000 and that the district’s permanent improvement revenue brings roughly $725,000 a year. Knapp described a 1% school district earned‑income tax as an alternative funding tool and estimated it would generate about $3.3 million annually, while acknowledging each option has trade‑offs for different taxpayers.

The district described the combined financing approach as an attempt to spread burden: a 0.75‑mill bond to cover construction and long‑term facilities costs alongside a 1% earned‑income tax that would apply to wages and earned income (not retirement, Social Security or investment income). Kogan emphasized the district will provide voters with a calculator and outreach to show how the mix would affect different households.

Councilmembers and residents asked for more detail on site plans, traffic and maintenance. The superintendent said designs are preliminary and that city safety staff and construction managers would be involved in final site decisions. She also said the district is developing a five‑year maintenance plan and will use construction oversight to avoid past construction compromises.

Kogan explained the district owns the primary school property and must follow Ohio procedures for surplus school land: offer it first to a charter within the district, then to the city, and only afterward put it on the open market. The district also plans to "mothball" the existing auditorium by making it structurally sound and extending utilities so it can remain available for rental or future community use rather than be demolished.

Kogan outlined a target timeline: the district hopes to place the question on the May 2026 ballot, begin design in 2026–27 and complete construction in 2029, with students occupying the new building in the 2029–30 school year. The district said it will hold community meetings (noted Jan. 22 and Feb. 24 during the presentation) and make a cost calculator available to the public as it educates voters.

Following the presentation and questions, the council adjourned by voice vote.