Money Matters: The Bond Election
As you probably know, Minco Public Schools is having a bond election for new
athletic facilities that would be built off of Highway 81 where the high school and middle
school are located. This is a great opportunity as I laid out a few weeks ago. We need a
new track and football facility. This is the 1st phase of a two-phased project. The
second phase will be in clear focus by January 2026. Exciting things are happening
and are on the horizon for the Minco Public School District and community.
Obviously, we have to run a bond for this facility. In 2013 we ran a $13,590,000
bond for the construction of a high school. In 2018 we ran a $14,580,000 bond for the
construction of a middle school and major elementary improvements. The community
has stepped up to make sure our students have the best. Once again we have the
opportunity to really do some special things for our students. On November 14th, 2023
you will go to the polls to vote on this measure.
This measure is for a $22,540,000 bond which would provide the funds
necessary to construct a track, field event area, and a turf football field. This would also
build an 8,500 square foot field house for locker rooms, restrooms, concession stand,
ticket booth, etc… Included also are the lights, sound equipment, scoreboard, and
equipment for track and field. There is a lot in this bond for sure.
This measure would be a 4% tax increase from the millage we approved in 2018.
For instance, If one pays $1,000 in property taxes a year that would increase to $1,040
a year. Minco has the distinct advantage of having an abundance of natural resources.
We have Nextera Wind, Mid-Ship Pipeline and other major energy companies that pay
most of this cost. The impact is pretty minimal on the average homeowner. I own two
properties. I pay roughly $3,000 a year in taxes. With this, I will pay $3,120.00 a year
which is $10 more a month. I will gladly pay that for this project to happen. Our children
deserve this. This is all based on the present district valuation of $60,000,000 (Sixty
Million Dollars).
The great thing is that the value of our district is getting ready to see significant
growth with the Rumble Solar Farm that will be built in our school district. Please go to
this website for more information: https://www.nexteraenergyresources.com/rumble-
solar.html You can find this a great resource of information for this project. This project
will add tremendous value that will allow us to run phase 2 of this project for an AG
show barn, more athletic facility improvements, and other improvements. These are
truly exciting days in Minco.
As with everything we have to pay for this, but the benefits for our students far
outweigh the cost of this project. These facilities will benefit many generations to come.
As always you can email me at ksims@minco.k12.ok.us if you have any questions.
By Kevin Sims
Minco Public Schools