The Independence Board of Education approved the second resolution at its July 21, 2026, meeting to place the renewal of the district's existing Permanent Improvement (PI) levy on the November 3, 2026, ballot.
If approved by voters, the measure would renew the district's current 1.25-mill, five-year Permanent Improvement levy. Because it is a renewal, it would not increase taxes for property owners. Permanent Improvement funds generate approximately $700,000 annually to support facility improvements, transportation and technology throughout the district. It costs homeowners about $26 per year for every $100,000 of property valuation.
Board President Katie Hill said renewing the district's Permanent Improvement levy is an important first step as the Board continues evaluating long-term solutions for Independence Local Schools' aging facilities.
"The May ballot initiative represented one vision for the future of Independence Schools," said Hill. "While that issue was not approved by voters, the Board of Education remains committed to addressing the long-term facility needs of our students and our community."
Following the May 2026 election, the Board has continued discussions about future facility options while seeking input from residents and community stakeholders.
District officials said maintaining the Permanent Improvement levy is critical regardless of which long-term facilities plan is ultimately pursued.
"Renewing this levy allows us to continue investing in our buildings, buses, technology and other capital needs while the Board evaluates the best path forward for our community," said Superintendent Kelli Cogan. "These dollars cannot be used for day-to-day operating expenses. They are dedicated to preserving and improving the district's infrastructure and ensuring we can continue providing safe, functional learning environments for our students."
Voters most recently renewed the Permanent Improvement levy in November 2021.
With the Board's recent approval, the renewal issue will appear on the November 3, 2026, general election ballot.