In preparation for the Murray City School District Bond Measure on the November 5, 2024, ballot and per Utah Code 59-1-1604, the Governing Body (Murray City School District) shall submit an argument in favor of the bonds to the Election Officer, Richard Reese, by September 6, 2024. A copy of that argument is below.
Argument in Favor of a General Obligation Bond by the Murray City School District (MCSD) Board of Education
The MCSD Board of Education is committed to ensuring that our schools provide the best possible environment for teaching and learning. To achieve this, we are advocating for the approval of a general obligation bond to rebuild Riverview Junior High School and add a classroom wing and security enhancements to Murray High School. This bond is essential for funding critical improvements in our school infrastructure, enhancing educational resources, and ensuring the safety and well-being of our students and staff.
Addressing Critical Infrastructure Needs and Investing in Educational Resources at Riverview Junior High School
Riverview Junior High School facilities were built decades ago, and despite regular maintenance, they have begun to show signs of wear that cannot be addressed with routine upkeep alone. Issues such as outdated electrical systems, inefficient heating and cooling, deteriorating roofs, and failing plumbing are becoming increasingly problematic and costly. A general obligation bond would provide the necessary funds to address these infrastructure needs comprehensively.
Classrooms today require flexible spaces for technology integration and collaboration. By rebuilding Riverview Junior High School, we can provide modern learning environments to equip our students with the skills they need to succeed. These include updated classrooms and science labs, a centralized library, performing arts spaces, and a commons area for students to gather, fostering a more engaging learning experience for all students. The rebuild will allow Riverview Junior High School students to have a learning environment similar to that of Hillcrest Junior High School, which was rebuilt in 2015. By rebuilding and modernizing Riverview Junior High School, we can create safer, more comfortable, cost-effective, and more conducive learning environments for our students.
Enhancing Safety and Security at MHS
Murray High School has been a cornerstone of the Murray community for generations. To ensure a quality education for all, a new classroom wing will be added specifically to allow space for our 9th graders to learn and earn high school credit in the high school setting. An additional classroom wing will allow us to reconfigure the main entrance and build a secure vestibule to enhance school safety. This secure vestibule will provide a single entry point for visitors to verify identification before granting access to the building. This additional layer of protection promotes a safer learning environment for all students and staff.
Fiscal Responsibility and Community Investment
The Board of Education strongly supports the approval of a general obligation bond. It is the most fiscally responsible way to fund these essential improvements. Investing in our schools through a general obligation bond is an investment in our community. By approving this bond, voters are committing to our children’s future and the long-term vitality of our community. This bond is not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about providing our students with the best possible educational experience. We urge the community to support this initiative and invest in the future of our schools and students.
Submitted by the Board of Education of Murray City School District
(No opposing argument was submitted)
The Board of Education shall conduct a public meeting on October 17, 2024, beginning at the hour of 6:00 p.m. at 5102 Commerce Drive, Murray, Utah. The purpose of the meeting is to hear arguments for and against the issuance of the Bonds.
