Countdown To GO Bond Election August 6 Winding Down
On the Tuesday, August 6, 2024, election ballot, the City of Holden has a General Obligation Bond (GO Bond) question for Voter consideration. Specifically, the ballot states:
“Shall the City of Holden, Missouri, issue its general obligation bonds in an amount up to $900,000 for the purpose of replacing fire equipment, and other public safety equipment, and acquiring, renovating, and improving municipal buildings for public safety and emergency preparedness purposes?”
A YES vote will allow the city to obtain a bond that will be repaid over the space of 20 years.
This is not a debt levy increase to the taxpayers, but a continuation of the current debt levy.
A NO vote will not allow the city to obtain a bond to address funding for public safety issues.
“Fast Facts”
1. What is a bond? It is essentially a loan against future property taxes. The city must obtain the voters’ approval to borrow against future property tax and makes a commitment to repay it over a period of time (20 Years). It can be compared to getting a home equity loan to do needed repairs on the home as an investment into the home. The laws of the State of Missouri prohibit the City from using the funds for any other purpose than the stated purpose on the ballot.
2. It is the taxpayer’s investment for specific purposes that are stated on the ballot. It cannot be used for city salaries or supplies. The City of Holden (if approved) will use this “loan” to:
a. Priority One:
• Replace/repair emergency equipment such as the fire pumper truck. The current pumper truck is 26 years old and becoming more difficult and expensive to maintain. Drive train and structural frame are of particular concern.
b. Priority Two:
• Repair and renovate Police Department staff and operations facilities and address needed building repairs for the City’s emergency shelter and emergency operations center to correct foundation and waterproofing problems.
c. Priority Three:
• Invest in the City’s capability to respond to emergencies for both shelter and emergency operations coordination – such as emergency backup generator power for the emergency shelter/fire department at City Hall.
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