Wentzville R‑IV board votes 6–1 to draft August ballot language for $175 million bond (option 2)
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Summary
The Wentzville R‑IV Board of Education directed administration to draft ballot language for a $175 million bond issue in August to begin addressing more than $300 million in identified facility needs. The motion passed 6–1; Director Lewis voted no.
The Wentzville R‑IV Board of Education voted 6–1 to direct district administrators to prepare ballot language for a $175,000,000 bond issue to be placed on the August ballot, a first phase of a multiissue plan the administration calls “option 2.” The motion to draft the language passed after a roll-call vote in which Director Lewis was the lone nay.
District staff told the board the district has identified roughly $309 million in immediate facility needs for older buildings and has limited capital funds to address them. Tim, the district presenter, said the administration analyzed two scenarios: a smaller plan that would fit within the district’s current payoff schedule, and option 2, which would phase larger projects over multiple bond issues. “We think it would be prudent to seek voter approval for a $175,000,000 bond issue at the August” ballot as the initial phase of a broader, phased approach, Tim said.
Administration outlined phase‑1 priorities that would be included in the initial bond language: Heritage, Holt and Wentzville Middle School, along with security upgrades. Staff said a $175 million August request would be spread out as funds are needed rather than issued as a single immediate draw, and any future phases would require separate voter approval.
Several board members expressed concern about timing and voter appetite. One member noted a previous $135 million request failed in a more favorable election and warned that an August ballot—when turnout patterns differ—could be riskier. Administrators acknowledged the political considerations and said the recommended phasing aims to limit inflation exposure and preserve future flexibility.
Board member (Secretary) Biesenthal moved the motion and Tim seconded. The motion passed on a roll-call vote with six ayes and one nay; Vice President Walsh, Doctor Henke, Secretary Biesenthal, Doctor Olsen, Doctor Wei and President Scott voted yes and Director Lewis voted no.
Next steps: administrators will draft specific ballot language and bring it back to the board for approval before the statutory deadline to place an item on the August ballot. If the board ultimately approves a resolution to place the measure on the ballot, it will be subject to voter approval in August.
