Florence, South Carolina – A referendum will be held on May 7, 2024, where Florence County School District 2 (FCSD2) will ask for approval to issue up to $7 million in general obligation bonds. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Florence County Board of Voter Registration and Elections, known as the Election Authority, is responsible for overseeing the process and has designated specific voting precincts and locations.
If approved, the bond issuance is not expected to increase property taxes. An assessment conducted in April 2022 by the South Carolina Department of Education highlighted the challenges faced by Hannah-Pamplico High School, built in 1964 and renovated multiple times through 2001. The building has outdated mechanical systems and plumbing issues like sewage backups. The assessment suggested constructing a new high school but noted that the state hasn’t allocated funds for this project. The study also pointed out a security issue with the lack of perimeter fencing.
In the fall of 2023, FCSD2 stakeholders prioritized a list of necessary repairs, renovations, and upgrades across the district, particularly emphasizing safety and current regulatory requirements. This list, with funding proposals, was given to the Board of Trustees. On February 26, 2024, the Board decided to proceed with a general obligation bond referendum to fund these critical capital improvements.
FCSD2 is seeking the approval of the voters to issue general obligation bonds in the amount of $7,000,000 to be paid over a term of 25 years. Working with its financial advisor, FCSD2 has projected that, if approved, the bonds issued pursuant to the referendum voters’ authorization is not projected to require an increase in property tax millage to repay them.
Read also: Grand opening celebration: Lexington School District Two unveils new Performing Arts Center
For what purposes will those bond proceeds be used?
For deferred maintenance on, but not limited to, the following projects:
- Enhanced safety and security measures
- HVAC replacement
- Roof replacement
- Painting and flooring projects
- Fencing
- Athletic upgrades (dugouts, concessions, restrooms, storage)
- Paving/resurfacing
- Drainage and sewer improvements
- Other repairs, renovations, refurbishments and improvements, furnishing, and/or equipment needed
The details can be found here.
 will ask for approval to issue up to $7 million bond){kind=link}