TULSA, Okla. — Thursday afternoon was all about the Tulsa Public Schools Bond Election.
Two groups, hosting two press conferences. One group, in favor of the bond. The other, voicing opposition.
WATCH: YES OR NO? Tulsa leaders express stances on upcoming TPS bonds
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols was among those voicing support for the bond. He reflected on his time working in economic development.
“I remember, when it came down to recruiting companies to Tulsa, they certainly were interested in incentives, like everybody’s curious about that, but the most important thing was the condition of your schools,” Nichols said.
Supporters say the conditions of Tulsa Public Schools, are riding on the $609 million bond package.
The package is split into four propositions. Voters will have the option to approve or disapprove each proposition, individually.
PROP 1: $200,985,000 to enhance the student experience at school
PROP 2: $276,000,0000 for district facilities
PROP 3: $104,785,000 for classroom technology
PROP 4: $27,230,000 for transportation costs
FIND YOUR VOTER INFO: Click here to visit the Oklahoma voter portal
The group in opposition was led by former City Councilor Jayme Fowler. He told reporters he is in favor of bonds in general, but not this package this time.
“Before we give them any more money, I think we need to ask them for substantive change,” Fowler said. “We want you to vote no on this package.”
None of the props will raise property taxes if approved.
Moises Echeverria is the president of the Foundation for Tulsa Public Schools.
He responded to the opposition.
“This bond package is not a blank check. The district has outlined over 90% of the projects for this package, and it’s so strategic,” Echeverria said.
Supporters say the bond is all about Tulsa’s future, specifically, TPS students. No one has the future in their hands, quite like TPS parents like Whitney Stauffer.
She is the mother of 2 TPS students, one in eighth grade, the other in fourth. 2 News Oklahoma listened to her envision her childrens’ future.
“I hope they’re confident. They’re ready for what’s next. I hope that they have critical thinking skills, and are able to have a foundation to help navigate whatever comes at them,” Stauffer said.
The election is scheduled for April 7.
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