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Eaton Rapids Public Schools

Growing the next generation of future leaders, thinkers, and problem-solvers.

Bond and Sinking Fund Information (Stays Hidden)

ERPS Sinking Fund and 2020 Bond Projects

An investment in students, schools, and our community.

 

We are now on to Phase 3 of our District Master Plan!

Thank you for your continued support in passing the Sinking Fund!  A reminder that this proposal comes at *zero* additional tax increase to our community. By maintaining the existing 7.0 mills, this measure simply extends timeline from 2028 to 2035.

Bond and Sinking Funds directly benefit our students by helping us maintain and improve our facilities. Keeping our buildings and grounds in top shape is essential, and every dollar invested in capital maintenance counts. We take our fiscal responsibility to the Eaton Rapids community seriously.  We hope you’ll find here all the information you need about what we are doing, how much we are spending, and where the money is coming from. After all, these are your schools, funded by your tax dollars.

We Are ER!

Thanks again for all your support!

Key Focus Areas

The Bond and Sinking Fund focus on refreshing our learning environments, updating our facility infrustructure, and preparing our district to meet the needs of today’s learners and tomorrow’s graduates.

Classroom Spaces

Refreshing our classrooms and common spaces ensures these spaces reflect our high standard of education.

Facility Needs

Updates are needed to maintain safe, functional, and modern learning environments.

Future Planning

Proactive improvements help manage long-term costs and support community growth.

District Projects

Major projects included in the Bond and/or Sinking Fund Proposals:

Lockwood Elementary

Updated Exterior, Playground Improvements, Classroom Refresh

Eaton Rapids Middle School

Updated Exterior, Classroom Refresh, Gym Re-do

Eaton Rapids High School

Updated Exterior, Classroom Refresh, Gym Floor Refinish

Frequently Asked Questions

Have additional questions? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help!

  • Think of a bond like a mortgage. It is a way for a school district to borrow an amount of money all at once from investors, which is then paid back with tax dollars over a number of years. A bond allows a district to complete major projects immediately without having to wait for funds to acrue.  A bond must undergo extensive planning, and then be submitted to and approved by the state.

    A sinking fund works like a savings account. The school district sets aside a little bit of tax money every year specifically for future repairs and upgrades. The money is banked before spending it. Once there's enough money in the fund, they pay for designated projects. Every dollar collected goes straight into the school projects.  Sinking funds do not need to be pre-approved by the state, but they must undergo an independent accounting audit every single year and the report is submitted directly to the Department of Treasury.

    Both must be approved by Voters

  • Both Bond and Sinking funds are dedicated to long-term facility improvements and cannot be used for salaries or daily operating expenses. 

     

  • Updates will be shared through district communications and our website.

  • District leaders, staff members and community members worked together to examine the challenges and long-term facility needs in our district.

Building Tomorrow, Together

These funds represent a shared investment in our students and our community’s future. Check back here to receive important updates and stay informed on the latest projects happening in our district.