BEND, OR -- The Bend-La Pine Schools bond measure continues to gain support, ahead of the May 16 election. District officials say issuing more than $268 million in general obligation bonds is necessary to fund construction of new schools and provide upgrades and maintenance at existing facilities.
Kyle Frick, with Mid Oregon Credit Union, says his board has decided to support the measure. "There’s just a lot of things going on. And, we’re having growth – we’re getting 600 new students per year, so it’s not like we’re not using the facilities we have. The school district, I think, has done a really good job of managing the funds over time." He tells KBND News, supporting the bond is important because of the role schools play in a growing economy. "The Bend Chamber came out as a supporter. We’re trying to create jobs here, we’re trying to keep people here, we’re trying to have a quality education. We have businesses that want to relocate here; they have kids. We also have businesses that are here that are trying to hire people, that we want to have a quality workforce here; and the schools help us with that."
The measure is also supported by a number of other groups, including the League of Women Voters, Central Oregon Builders Association and the Association of Realtors. There is - so far - no organized opposition.
To hear more of our conversation with Kyle Frick, visit our Podcast Page or click HERE.
