( KLZA)-- Sterling School District patrons passed a bond issue this month that will allow the school district to spend up to $17.5 million for improvements to the districts buildings.

The all mail-in election results were 305 yes votes and 261 votes against the proposal.

The bonds are to be paid off over a 25-year period and it is anticipated the bond will increase property taxes by approximately 22.5-cents per $100 of assessed valuation.

Sterling School District patrons were told of problems in the kitchen area are not repairable and that the elementary portion of the school has infrastructure issues. In addition, the roof was last upgraded 45 years ago.

The elementary school construction is expected to beign in June of 2026 with completion in August of 2027. Construction of the activities areas of the school will begin in June, 2027 with an anticipated completion date in August, 2028.