A bond is a state-approved funding process for a set scope of large-scale projects. When voters approve a bond proposal, the school district sells bonds in the authorized amount and uses the bond sale proceeds to pay for bond proposal projects. Bonds are typically paid back in 20-30 years.

Bonds can be used for:

• Constructing new school buildings
• Constructing additions to existing school buildings
• Remodeling existing school buildings
• Energy conservation improvements
• Land purchases
• Site development and improvements
• Athletic and physical education facility development and improvements
• Playground development and improvements
• Direct bond program costs such as professional fees, election fees, issuance costs, qualification fees, insurance fees, and final audit costs
• School bus purchases
• Purchasing loose furnishings and equipment (including administrative technology)
• Technology purchases are limited to hardware and communication devices that transmit, receive, or compute information for pupil instructional purposes only. The initial purchase of operating systems and customized application software is allowed if purchased with the initial hardware.

Bonds cannot be used for:

• Salaries, service contracts, lease payments, installment contracts, and supplies
• Repairs, maintenance, or maintenance agreements
• Purchasing automobiles, trucks, or vans
• Portable classrooms purchased for temporary use
• Uniforms
• Textbooks
• Upgrades to an existing computer operating system or application software
• Computer training, computer consulting, or computer maintenance contracts

Strong schools contribute to the overall health of communities. Our schools are the hub of the community. Making long-term investments in the brick and mortar of the district will allow the schools to be structurally sound for years to come. In addition, studies have shown that investment in schools positively impacts property values.

The election is scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

Registered voters who reside within the boundaries of the Sault Area Public Schools who will be 18 years of age or older on Election Day may vote in this election.

Registered voters do not need a reason to vote by absentee ballot. You can request an absentee ballot application from the clerk’s office or by going online to www.michigan.gov/vote and clicking Vote at home. Absentee ballots are generally sent out six weeks prior to Election Day.