Community insights sought on rejected school bond measure
District wants input on community priorities, perspectives.
EPHRATA — Ephrata school officials are seeking public feedback regarding the 25-year, $75 million construction bond proposition rejected by a majority of voters during a Feb. 10 special election.
Community members can share their thoughts with district superintendent Ken Murray when he hosts a listening session on Wednesday, April 22, from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Ephrata Middle School library.
The public can also provide input via an online survey through Sunday, April 19. All responses will be anonymous.
“Feedback will be used to better understand community perspectives and will be shared with an expanded Facility Study Group as it reconvenes this spring,” the district said in an announcement.
The survey asks participants whether they voted in the February election and, if so, what factors influenced their decision to support or oppose the measure.
The survey poses questions about tax rates, project costs, length of the bond, proposed school locations, prioritization of which schools to renovate or replace, how well the overall bond proposition was understood, and other thoughts.
“We are committed to listening and learning from our community,” the district said in its announcement. “Your voice plays an important role as we continue to plan for the future of our schools. We hope you'll help us better understand the needs and priorities to best serve Ephrata students and families.”
The district also intends to reconvene a facilities study group which will help shape a future bond package. Persons interested in being involved with the study group are asked to notify the district by email.
The February ballot measure received 47.4% voter approval, short of the 60% needed for passage.
If approved, it would have also qualifed Ephrata for an additional $27.4 million in non-taxed state funding. Together, the monies would finance construction of two new schools to replace aging Grant Elementary and Parkway Intermediate, plus add three classrooms and a new secured entryway and performing arts center at Ephrata High School.
If another bond proposition is developed and okayed by the school board, it would likely be set for a special election in February 2027, Murray said last month.
