Carthage Board to decide fate of bond issue vote
Voters could be asked to approve funds for a new Performing Arts Center
The Carthage R-9 School Board will decide Monday night whether or not to ask voters on April 5th to approve a bond issue to help build a new performing arts center on the Carthage High School campus.
A proposed tax extension of about 2 years at current levels would raise about $18 million for the structure.
Private fund raising would also take place. The school has previously decided to name the facility in honor of Pat and Carolyn Phelps of Carthage who have pledged a $750,000 donation for the building.
What’s the problem with the 800-seat center the school’s been using for decades?
“What we have right now is not in the best situation to instruct kids, whether it be in vocal and instrumental music, drama or scene shop development,” said Dr. Mark Baker, Carthage Superintendent of Schools.
“It’s outdated and needs more space,” he added.
The proposal, if approved, would need a 57.1 percent approval to pass.