Redford Union BOE approves a $59.2 mil bond ballot proposal

March 9, 2021 – The Board of Education for the Redford Union School District unanimously approved a resolution to place a bond proposal on the May 4, 2021 ballot. The $59.2 million bond proposal will address critical infrastructure needs and make improvements to aging educational facilities across the District. The proposed bond comes at a zero tax-rate increase to the community.

The funding from the bond will be used to address the District’s aging and inefficient buildings and create cost savings for years to come. The bond will also make essential updates to school buildings and related systems, including replacing ceilings and flooring, upgrading HVAC systems for improved heating and cooling capabilities and air quality, replacing doors and windows, and renovating classroom areas. Other important areas included are safety and security upgrades, common space renovations, site improvements, athletic upgrades, technology upgrades, and furniture replacements.

“Our District continues to be committed to providing students with the tools to succeed now and the skills for future success. The 2021 bond proposal will allow the District to improve infrastructures and upgrade educational opportunities while maintaining a zero tax-rate increase for taxpayers,” said Superintendent Jasen Witt.

The last bond passed by the District was in 2009, which included the partial remodeling of facilities for cost savings in energy conservation. With the funding from the 2021 bond, the District would seek to continue the replacement of antiquated building features during a period when interest rates are at a historical low.

Features of the 2021 Bond Proposal include:

Critical Building Improvements

• Replacing roofing, ceilings, and flooring
• Upgrading plumbing, lighting, and electrical systems
• Replacing interior/exterior doors and windows
• Upgrading beyond-useful-life HVAC equipment

Building Renovations

• Installing secure vestibule entryways
• Renovating media centers
• Building an addition to Redford Union High School to create a single Secondary Campus with both distinct and shared facilities for middle school and high school students

Site and Athletic Improvements

• Removing and repaving parking lots
• Upgrading playgrounds
• Replacing field equipment such as lighting, bleachers, and fencing
• Enhancing the Field and Track at Hilbert Middle School
• Building new and/or upgrading athletic facilities at Redford Union High School

Furniture and Equipment

• Replacing worn-out classroom, media center, and cafeteria furniture
• Replacing instructional technology equipment
• Purchasing new performing arts and athletic equipment for the middle school and high school

“Our District-wide improvements would support our mission of providing a tradition-rich, future-focused education for our students. Offering new, safe, innovative, and purposeful learning opportunities for our students and community members is our #1 priority,” said Witt.

Under state law, bond proceeds may not be used to pay administrator, teacher, or staff salaries; routine maintenance costs; or other school operating expenses. The money generated by this bond must be directed toward improving Redford Union School District facilities so that programs can be enhanced.

For more information on the bond, please visit www.redfordu.k12.mi.us and click on 2021 bond information, contact any school principal, or reach out directly to Superintendent Jasen Witt at 313-242-6001.