The Cassville Board of Education has approved a resolution proposing a $9 million no-tax-increase bond issue on the April 4, 2023, ballot.

The proposition, named Performing Arts and Wildcat Safety (P.A.W.S.) aim to construct, equip and furnish a performing arts center on the high school campus. It will also implement energy saving and maintenance improvements, including roofs, windows, electrical systems, gutters, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units, and lighting; complete safety upgrades district-wide; repurpose existing space for the wrestling program; and to the extent funds are available, complete other repairs and improvements to the existing facilities of the district.

Paragon Architecture was previously selected as the District’s architect for the projects. R.E. Smith was previously selected as the District’s construction management company for the project.

As a no-tax-increase initiative, the adjusted debt service levy of the district is estimated to remain unchanged at $0.5071 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation of real and personal property. Passage of this initiative in April will extend the present debt service levy by four years (from 2039 to 2043).

“The bond proceeds will allow for improved opportunities and space at the high school for students in the fine arts programs,” said Merlyn Johnson, Cassville superintendent. “The performing arts center would enhance many of our programs including the technology department by offering students opportunities to learn about advanced programming, recording and sound systems. This space would also serve as a site for many of our elementary school concerts, award programs and movie nights.

“Furthermore, the addition of the performing arts center will be something the community can be proud of and use for many community related events. The movement of some of the fine arts classes will free up space for other needs in the high school and will allow the district to repurpose an existing space for wrestling.”

The performing arts center price tag is estimated to be about $9 million, and Johnson said the district hopes for about $1 million in interest to help with the other projects.

“Many of these upgrades would be centered around our older buildings, such as the primary and middle schools,” he said. “The middle school building by the art, choir and shop classes need lots of updates to things like gutters, windows, gas lines and electric. It’s a lot of little fixes people won’t see but add up quick. throw in the security upgrade ta the high school, and you’re getting close to $1 million.”

The plan for the high school entryway would make it mirror those at each of the other buildings. The office would be moved to a classroom adjacent to the front doors, and a vestibule would funnel visitors from the front door directly to the office.

“Securing the entryway at the high school will also be a high priority,” Johnson said. “Currently, when someone comes through the front doors, they have access to the entire high school. We won’t do anything major construction-wise, but we will move the office to the front and put in a vestibule there.”

Overall, Johnson said the district is excited about the possibilities of the bond initiative.

“School improvement is an ongoing process and something school districts should never stop doing,” he said. “The selected projects placed on the April 4 ballot are all student-centered improvements. Cassville R-IV students deserve the same opportunities that are being offered at many of our neighboring districts.”

Johnson said if anyone has a particular topic they would like addressed, or if anyone has any ideas or questions concerning the bond initiative, he may be reached at mjohnson@cassville.k12.mo.us or 417-8472221.