Voters approve $474 million bond request for Kansas City (Missouri) district

For the first time in 58 years, voters in the Kansas City (Missouri) school district have approved a tax increase to support facility improvements.

KMBC-TV reports that the $474 million general obligation bond for Kansas City Public Schools won about 85% of the vote.

The bond measure required a four-sevenths majority to pass and will pay for building repairs, renovations and safety upgrades at more than 40 school sites.

"It shows what amazing things we can do when we put children first and we work together," said Jennifer Collier, superintendent of Kansas City Public Schools.

Of the total bond amount, $424 million is designated for district facilities, and $50 million will be allocated to nine participating charter school partners.