Orange County Commissioners on Thursday will discuss a proposed bond referendum that could total $125 million dollars.

If voters approve the ballot measure slated for November 2016, it would be the largest bond package in the county’s history.

The board voted 4-2 in April to use that money for school repairs and renovations, instead of splitting the funds between schools, parks, affordable housing and other projects.

The Orange County and Chapel Hill-Carrboro school systems have estimated they need as much as $300 million to fully fix aging schools and expand capacity throughout the two districts.

Still, critics, including several commissioners, say the county needs to focus spending on affordable housing as well as school repair.

The board will hear Thursday from the county’s financial advisers on the potential impact of a $125 million dollar bond, as well as other scenarios totaling as much as $135 million.

Commissioners say they want your input on the bond proposal too. They’ll take public comment next Tuesday at 7 o’clock in the Southern Human Services Center at Homestead Road. You can also submit comments online: ocbocc@orangecountync.gov

For Thursday’s agenda, click here.

 

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