Wirt County voters face $9.3 million school bond in November

Wirt County residents will decide this November whether to approve a tax levy that funds a major rebuild of the local high school.

The proposal seeks to raise $9.3 million through new bonds. If voters approve the measure, the state School Building Authority would contribute an additional $18 million. Superintendent John McKown stated that the combined funding would allow the district to construct a new Wirt County High School and upgrade other facilities for future students.

Wirt County High School principal Dottie Smith described the current building as deteriorating. The structure was built in 1938 and now allows weather to seep inside, damaging walls and windows. Smith noted that the aging infrastructure requires urgent repair to maintain a safe learning environment.

Beyond basic repairs, the project includes new classrooms, updated science equipment, and modern career and technical education spaces. Athletic improvements include new bleachers, facilities, an auxiliary gym, and a track, which the school currently lacks. McKown compared the local facilities to those in Ritchie, Roane, and Calhoun counties, saying he wants Wirt County students to feel pride in their own school.

If passed, the levy adds a new tax for property owners in the county for 15 years. The annual tax is calculated by multiplying the property value by 0.0013308. McKown called the cost a good financial deal, noting that the district has relied on excess levies for more than 40 years and does not frequently ask taxpayers for increases. He emphasized that the 1938 building has served the community well but is ready for replacement.

McKown said the district would triage necessary repairs and continue seeking state funding for specific needs if the bond fails. He acknowledged that the school has functioned for 88 years and could continue for a while longer in the worst case. However, the district will keep pursuing funds for renovations and addressing existing concerns regardless of the vote.

The measure appears on the ballot for Wirt County voters this November, deciding whether to proceed with the new high school project or maintain the current infrastructure through phased repairs.