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Columbus State proposes bond issue for capital improvements

Campus News | Friday, October 25, 2019

Funds will help prepare students for in-demand jobs

(Columbus, OH)—The Columbus State Community College Board of Trustees today adopted a resolution of necessity for a Franklin County bond issue needed to fund the modernization of facilities vital to preparing students for in-demand jobs and advancing the region’s economy.

A $300 million bond issue—proposed for the March 17, 2020, Franklin County primary election ballot—would generate funding for the College to pursue necessary facility and IT infrastructure maintenance and improvements detailed in its capital plan, including classroom and lab renovation, modern technology adoption, and the expansion of student support spaces in buildings whose average age is nearly 50 years.

Collection of the bond issue would begin in 2020 and run 24 years. Estimated at o.65 mill, the request would ask Franklin County homeowners for an investment of less than $2 per month for each $100,000 of property value. All money generated by the bond issue must be spent in Franklin County and can only be spent on capital improvements.

The issue would generate $300 million for the renewal and development of learning facilities needed to prepare students for in-demand jobs and sustainable careers in healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, engineering, business, public safety, and other critical fields in a rapidly growing market.

“For thousands of students, Columbus State represents an affordable path to a sustainable, prosperous future,” said Columbus State President David Harrison. “The modernization of our facilities is key to the success of our students and the employers who hire them.”

Specific capital improvements will include projects intended to:

  • Redesign, renovate, and expand classrooms, labs, and other educational facilities,
  • Upgrade technology to better prepare students for the modern workplace,
  • Address deferred maintenance, repair deteriorating infrastructure, and ensure safety and accessibility for all members of the College community.

Trustees reviewed letters of support from a faculty member, an enrolled student, and leaders of One Columbus, The Columbus Urban League, The Columbus Chamber of Commerce, the YWCA Columbus, and Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. The letters cite the College’s key role in developing regional talent and providing affordable opportunities to students who might otherwise have no college options.

“Columbus State is critical to our area’s efforts to elevate students and families and fuel regional growth and prosperity,” said Robert P. Restrepo, Jr., chair of the College’s Board of Trustees. “This bond issue will advance the College immeasurably, and with it the fortunes of countless local families and talent-hungry employers.”

 

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