School Votes Looming

It appears likely an operational millage election for 4 or 5 milis and perhaps a school bonding election jviïl face Ann Arbor School District voters May 5 or June 9. These possible dates were discussed last night by the Ann Arbor Board of Education. Several board members favored june 9- the date of the annual school board elections. The possible bonding issue would be a somewhat altered version of the three-part, $9.5 million bonding issue which was defeated at the polls Dec. 18. This issue requested funds for school construction and renovations, administrative and service facilities and an addition to the main public library. School Supt. W. Scott Westerman Jr. indicated a millage election for operational funds in May or June is a virtual tainty. No amount was mentioned last night, but last October the superintendent suggested a total of about 5.37 milis- or perhaps slightly less- would probably be necessary. This amount would include a 3.37-mill renewal, and perhaps two additional milis. Westerman said he would recommend that a second bonding issue to finance the planned third high school be delayed until fall. He said if such a bonding issue were approved next fall, prosp:2ts for opening the third high school by September of 1972 would still be "reasonably good." Trustee William C. Godfrey said he favored the June 9 date because it would coincide with the school board elections. He said the millage and bonding issues would have a better chance of passing with a large voter turnout - and school I board elections traditionally bring out a large number of I voters. I If a special election is called May 5, it must first be I approved by a special election I committee, according to a new I law. Westerman will recommend a I spring date soon, probably next I week.