BALLOT TITLE
Caption: Bonds to Increase Safety, Security; Repair, Construct Schools; Increase Accessibility
Question: Shall District issue bonds, projected to maintain 2026 bond rate, to increase safety, repair, replace aging schools and increase accessibility?
If the bonds are approved, they will be payable from taxes on property or property ownership that are not subject to the limits of sections 11 and 11b, Article XI of the Oregon Constitution.
Summary: This measure is projected to maintain District's 2026 bond levy rate of $1.62/$1,000 of assessed value.
If passed, District will receive $8,168,000 in state matching funds.
Reynolds School District seeks approval for a principal amount of $162.5 million in bonds to finance capital costs, including:
Replace Aging Glenfair Elementary:
Replace the 72-year-old school, which is overcrowded, has building systems beyond repair, contains hazardous materials, and has outdated safety & security measures. Replacement estimated to cost less than renovation.
Repair Failing Infrastructure:
- Roofing, HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, water heater replacement districtwide.
Safety & Security:
- New fire alarm systems, PA systems, perimeter security across the district.
Accessibility:
- ADA upgrades including accessible parking, sidewalks, ramps districtwide.
Additional Projects:
- New turf field, bleachers at Reynolds High School.
Requires community oversight committee, regular audits.
Financials:
- Bonds may be issued in multiple series, each maturing within 21 years from issuance.
- No increase to 2026 bond levy rate of $1.62 per $1,000 of assessed value expected.
- Actual bond levy rate may differ due to interest rates, changes in property value.
Explanatory Statement: Reynolds School District serves more than 9,000 students across 16 schools in Fairview, Troutdale, Wood Village, and parts of Gresham and Portland.
CONTINUING THE COMMUNITY'S INVESTMENT IN SCHOOLS
This bond measure is part of the District's ongoing commitment to safe, secure, and well-maintained schools for Reynolds students and staff.
PROJECTED TO MAINTAIN CURRENT BOND TAX RATE
This measure is projected to maintain the District's 2026 bond levy rate of $1.62 per $1,000 of assessed value, with no increase expected.
SECURES MATCHING FUNDS
Additionally, the District would receive $8,168,000 in state matching funds through the Oregon School Capital Improvement Match Program, but only if the bond measure passes.
REYNOLDS SCHOOLS FACE CHALLENGES
- Aging School Buildings: Reynolds School District schools are aging, with outdated HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems and roofs that are failing districtwide.
- Glenfair Elementary: The 72-year-old school faces significant building, mechanical, and security challenges, and is overcrowded in several parts of the building. Access to basic facilities is limited: for example only one bathroom serves 270 students.
- Safety and Security: Several fire alarm systems across the District are in need of replacement to keep students and staff safe.
- Accessibility: Many school facilities are due for ADA accessibility updates for students, staff, and visitors.
2026 BOND PROPOSAL
Reynolds School District has developed a bond proposal to address these facility needs. By law, bond proceeds may only be used for capital costs, not regular operating costs. If passed, the bond is expected to fund:
Replace Aging Glenfair Elementary:
- Replace the 72-year-old school, which is overcrowded, contains hazardous materials, and has building and security systems beyond repair; replacement is estimated to cost less than renovation
Repair Failing Infrastructure:
- Roofing, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, and water heater replacement districtwide
Safety & Security:
- New fire alarm systems, PA systems, and perimeter security improvements
Accessibility:
- ADA upgrades including accessible parking, sidewalks, and ramps districtwide
Additional Projects:
- New turf field and bleachers at Reynolds High School
- Bathroom renovations at High School & Middle Schools
- Replace current carpeted Sweetbriar gym floor with a modern, easy to clean surface
OVERSIGHT AND ACCOUNTABILITY
A community oversight committee would monitor bond spending and conduct regular audits to ensure funds are used solely for voter-approved projects.
FINANCIALS
Bonds may be issued in multiple series, each maturing within 21 years from issuance.
This measure is projected to maintain the District's 2026 bond levy rate of $1.62 per $1,000 of assessed value, with no increase expected.
Actual bond levy rate may differ due to interest rates, changes in property value.
MORE INFORMATION
Please visit ReynoldsSchoolBond.org to learn more.
Submitted by:
Frank Caropelo, Superintendent
Reynolds School District No. 7