Kitchen, school tours scheduled ahead of bond vote

In hopes of gaining approval of a $3.35 million bond request, Kalispell Public Schools is hosting special events for people to see why upgrades are proposed.

The money would pay for a multi-purpose room and four new classrooms at Peterson Elementary, four new classrooms at Edgerton Elementary School and a new central kitchen at Kalispell Middle School.

There will be three opportunities for people to tour areas where bond money would be spent.

The first event is School Harvest, a cooking demonstration by district Head Chef Malcolm Orser from 5:45 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 9 in the current central kitchen at Flathead High School.

Orser’s recipes will feature produce harvested from vegetable gardens at school sites. Participants will taste-test food prepared by Orser and receive copies of the recipes.

Reservations are requested by calling 751-3432. Space is limited to 24 people.

An Aug. 16  public comment session with architect Tom Heinecke of Morrison-Maierle is planned to discuss proposed drawings for the new elementary classrooms and central kitchen.

This session is from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. at Edgerton Elementary.

On Sept. 4 between 1 and 3 p.m., community members are invited to tour classrooms at Peterson to see the impact of overcrowding.

Principal Rick Anfenson will be a tour guide. Because school will be in session, visitors are required to call the front office to arrange a time to visit at 751-3737.

Ballots for the bond election will be mailed Aug. 29 and need by be returned by Sept. 18.

Trustees will set the final bond-request amount at an Aug. 17 board meeting.

In June, district officials estimated that if a $3.35 million bond issue is approved, owners of a home valued at $100,000 would see taxes increase by $9.48 annually or owners of a home valued at $200,000 would see taxes increase by $18.95 a year.

For more information visit www.sd5.k12.mt.us.