Lawrence Chamber endorses school bond proposal

The Lawrence Chamber of Commerce board of directors is endorsing a proposed $92.5 million bond issue for the Lawrence school district.

The board voted unanimously earlier this week to support the proposal.

“The Chamber recognizes that investment in our public school system is not only vital for developing a strong sense of community, but it also serves as a critical component in attracting and retaining new business in the region,” the board said in a written statement.

The school district is seeking voter approval to issue $92.5 million in new bonds to pay for building upgrades and expansions at the 14 elementary schools, as well as districtwide technology improvements and expansion of the district’s career and technical education programs.

Most of the money for building improvements would focus on the six older buildings in east and central Lawrence to bring them up to the same standards as newer buildings in west Lawrence.

“We particularly endorse the school district’s commitment to building a workforce development center,” the Chamber board said in the statement. “This is an excellent start to bring technical training to Lawrence.”

Voters in the Lawrence district will decide on the bond proposal at the April 2 general election.