Oklahomans Head to Polls for Crucial School Bonds, Tax Votes, and Local Races

Oklahomans are heading to the polls on Tuesday to decide on a range of critical issues, including significant school bond proposals, tax propositions, and various local elections. Voters will cast their ballots on measures that could shape educational facilities and local governance across Northeast Oklahoma.

Key Election Issues

• School Bonds: Several school districts are seeking voter approval for bond packages to fund essential upgrades and expansions.

• Tax Propositions: A notable tax increase is on the ballot in Wagoner County.

• Local Races: Numerous school board positions and city council seats are up for election.

Major School Bond Proposals

Owasso Public Schools is presenting a substantial $197 million bond package. A significant portion, $62 million, is earmarked for a new 5th-grade center, which Superintendent Dr. Margaret Coates stated would enable the district to offer full-day pre-K, benefiting both teachers and families.

In Jenks, the school district is requesting over $19 million for facility improvements. These funds are intended for upgrades to the tennis facility, aquatic center, and high school performing arts center, along with safety enhancements. The district also plans to expand its freshman academy to accommodate growing enrollment and new educational programs, such as aviation and biology labs.

Other School Bond Initiatives

Several other Green Country school districts have bond propositions on the ballot:

• Vinita Public Schools: A bond exceeding $10 million for a new storm shelter, building repairs, and new buses.

• Preston Public Schools: A nearly $3 million bond for a new multi-purpose classroom and storm shelter.

• Allen-Bowden Public Schools: A nearly $2 million bond for a new gym and classroom space.

• Poteau Public Schools: A $1.2 million bond to install HVAC systems in three school gyms.

• Avant Public Schools: A $800,000 request for cafeteria tables, floor repairs, new doors, and a vehicle.

• Kinta Public Schools: A bond focused on improving Ag facilities.

• Buffalo Valley Public Schools: Two propositions totaling $580,000, including HVAC for the gym, an Ag-Ed Animal Barn, playground equipment, and athletic facility improvements.

• Braggs Public Schools: Two propositions, one for $650,000 for facility improvements, HVAC, scoreboards, and curriculum, and another for new transportation equipment.

Tax and Local Elections

Wagoner County voters will consider a quarter-penny sales tax increase over 15 years to fund a $13.5 million settlement related to a jail incident.

Numerous school board races are also scheduled, including positions in Broken Arrow, Beggs, Grove, Haskell (Whitefield Public School Board), Tulsa Public Schools, and Wyandotte Public Schools. City council elections are taking place in Okmulgee, Owasso, Pawhuska, and Pryor Creek, with various districts and at-large positions contested.

Election Day Information

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. Voters can find their specific ballot information and polling locations on the Oklahoma State Election Board website.

Sources

• What's on the ballot? Oklahomans to vote on school bonds, city council races & more, News On 6.