The Eufaula School Board is asking voters to approve the issuance of almost $24 million in general obligation bonds for several projects, including an event center that would be used by the school as well as the public.

The question will be voted on in a special election on April 1.

The Board and Superintendent Monty Guthrie stressed that approving the bonds would not cost voters anything, as the current millage rate that is ear-marked for schools is sufficient to retire the debt over a period of years.

“No tax increases,” said Guthrie.

If approved, the bond money would be used to construct an event center at an estimated cost of $20.4 million; to construct, furnish, equip and/or acquire a classroom addition at the Middle School ($2,040,000) and to acquire and install turf at the football field ($1,530,000).

“We used a committee of Eufaula School District citizens to establish the priorities,” Guthrie said.

He said in coming up with the priorities, “we started with the idea of not raising taxes. We’re at a very modest tax rate at this time and we wanted to do something that would serve the next generation in a good way and meets the current needs that we have.”

Guthrie noted that the Board and previous administrations have done an excellent job in maintaining the school’s properties.

“We need to move forward and continue the current investment we have in the school system. We have good facilities, and we need to keep moving forward,” he said. Board President Jeff Pippenger, a long-time member of the Board, noted that he has been around for many of the progressive changes over the years – the football stadium, press box, baseball and softball fields, a new ag room and more.

He expressed pride in the accomplishments and looks forward to being part of the continued progress.

“It’s been neat to be part of it,” he said.

Other business

Following an executive session to evaluate the performance of Superintendent Guthrie, the Board extended his contract for three years. He had been evaluated annually.

And they gave him a five percent pay increase.

“He hasn’t had a pay raise,” Pippenger said.

Guthrie was hired in 2022.

The Board also affirmed the election of Michael Morton to Seat No. 5.