Birmingham Schools voters face fall bond vote

The Birmingham Public Schools Board of Education on Tuesday, June 23, unanimously approved placing a school facilities and safety improvement bond proposal on the Tuesday, November 3 general election ballot, replacing a similar bond issue expiring in 2026.

School district voters, in Mach of 2020, approved a $195 million bond issue for six years that has been used for improvements at all schools in the district.

The new bond proposal would provide safety enhancements and facilities improvements to help prepare students for success and careers, with no increase from the current millage rate, according to district officials.

The new bond issue would provide: safety improvements, included expanded security camera systems, an upgraded emergency notification system, and backup generators; replacement of roofs, flooring, boilers and other aging infrastructure; technology improvements, including upgrades to wireless networks, infrastructure and internet security; renovation and expansion of the Midvale Early Childhood Center, allowing for additional preschool program opportunities for district residents; and replacement of aging playground equipment with added student accessibility. 

The bond proposal is part of the district’s continued commitment to providing a safe, modern learning environment where all students can achieve, succeed and prepare for in-demand careers, including in the skilled trades, officials said. 

If this proposal passes, officials said every dollar spent will be tracked, audited and available on a public website to ensure fiscal transparency and accountability, and that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.

“This no-millage rate increase proposal allows us to build on our proven track record of providing safe, secure facilities that help prepare all Birmingham students for success and the careers of today and tomorrow,” said Dr. Embekka Roberson, Birmingham Public Schools superintendent. “This proposal also builds on our continued commitment to fiscal accountability and transparency and ensuring our community’s tax dollars are invested in the success of our students and schools.”