Endorsement: Yes for upgrades at Winfield Elementary Dist. 34

Winfield Elementary District 34 is asking voters for permission to borrow $4.7 million to replace building infrastructure and make security upgrades to its two schools.

The district wants the extra money so it could replace windows at Winfield Primary that date back to the 1950s and '60s. It also wants new heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems for Winfield Primary and Winfield Central.

In addition, the district wants to replace a 20-year-old roof and a tile gym floor at Winfield Central. Finally, security enhancements would be made at both schools.

We know times are tough. But this is a reasonable request that would benefit the district's students.

If voters approve the ballot measure, the district would issue new bonds to replace expiring debt. The school board also would abate $940,000 in property taxes that would otherwise be collected to pay off the current bond issue.

With the abatement, the school district's portion of the property tax bill for the owner of a $270,000 home would decrease by about $116. If voters reject the measure, the tax bill for that homeowner would drop by roughly $540 after the retirement of the existing debt.

The district is simply trying to maintain its schools and make them safer for students. There are no bells and whistles.

For that reason, we recommend a yes vote.