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By Allison Scarbrough, News Editor
HESPERIA — Voters in the Hesperia Community Schools district will consider a $11.7 million bond issue for upgrades throughout the district, such as adding a secure entrance to the high school, resurfacing the track and updates to the football stadium, Tuesday, Nov. 4.
The bond proposal is not expected to increase the current debt millage rate, said Hesperia Superintendent Brian Mey. “We currently levy 7.5 mills for our bonded debt. This is an extension of our current term in the school bond loan fund. It’s an extension of six years from 2038 to 2044. It’s similar to refinancing your house if you have some equity, because you have a home improvement project that you need to do – like a new roof. It’s basically a mortgage refinance for bond debt.
“We’re levying 7.5 mills on Nov. 3, and whether it passes or not on Nov. 4, we’re still levying 7.5 mills,” Mey explained. “It’s not an increase.”
The last time voters approved a bond for district improvements was in 2008. A majority of the improvements would replace or repair 30-year-old facilities, said Mey.
All Oceana County townships in the Hesperia district will vote at the Newfield Township Hall at 3890 S. 198th Ave. — instead of separate voting precincts.
“The bond project reflects three core values that emerged during our planning process — community, commitment and legacy,” said Superintendent Mey.
“Hesperia Community Schools are committed to delivering the best educational experience for students, and that starts with safety. One of the proposed projects includes adding a new secure entry at the high school. It’s a straight-forward but essential improvement that helps better protect students while they are at school. This is the last school in the district that does not have a dedicated, secure entrance.
“Another area the bond would address is our southeast parking lot. It has deteriorated from years of wear and weather. Resurfacing and redesigning the parking lot isn’t just about appearance — it’s about safety for drivers, walkers and buses alike. Improving the pavement means safer drop-offs and improved accessibility.”
“To support a safe, healthy and reliable learning environment, the proposal includes essential infrastructure upgrades. That means repairing aging roofs; improving heating and ventilation systems; updating electrical capacity; and replacing select doors across the district.
“In Hesperia, our stadium isn’t just a field — it’s where our community comes together,” the school leader said. “But our track and support buildings could use some work. Renovations would include resurfacing the existing running track; a new ADA ramp to access the bleachers; as well as restrooms, ticket booth, concessions and team rooms, creating a safer, more welcoming environment for everyone who gathers to cheer on the Panthers.
“We’ve done a lot with grants and careful budgeting, but some improvements are bigger, and that’s why we’re bringing this bond proposal to the voters in Hesperia Community Schools.”
If approved, construction would begin next summer with the majority of the work taking place in 2027.
Bond Overview
Improvements to Safety and Security
- New secure entrance at the high school
- Updating to address Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance
- Adding security film at main building entrances
- Select door replacements district-wide
Addressing Infrastructure and Learning Environments
- Select roof repairs at elementary, middle school and high school buildings
- Updating electrical distribution at middle school
- Updating existing HVAC system
- Replacing science lab exhaust fans
- Installing a hardscape surface on the internal courtyard at the middle school for an optional outdoor classroom
- Updating restroom plumbing, finishes and lighting at the high school
- Reconstructing the southeast parking lot
Athletic updates
- Updating and remodeling high school locker rooms
- Updating restroom plumbing, finishes and lighting
- Resurfacing the existing running track and field event area
- Updated football stadium entrance — restrooms, ADA accessible concessions, ADA accessible ticket booth, team room, paving and fencing
- Separate baseball and softball entrances — concessions, restroom, ticket booth and fencing
For more information, visit https://www.hcsbond2025.com or the school’s Facebook page.
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