NEDERLAND, Texas — In February of this year, Nederland ISD Board Trustees approved an order calling for a $155.6 million bond election.
It's a big proposal that's dividing the city. Two propositions have been made.
The second of several informational meeting was held at Helena Park Elementary School for community members.
Ronald Nichols says he knows the need is great.
"The kids need the best opportunity to learn, the best opportunity to grow. They need that extra space, and they need the extra room to be able to do that," said Nichols.
Initially, he was against it, but says he soon changed his mind.
"Walking through the different campuses and seeing the number of students that were shoved into one room because they didn't have any extra space," said Nichols. "Seeing students that were basically sitting at a table with a chair versus having their own desk because there wasn't any more space to fit any desks in the room."
Some residents on the other side say they aren't necessarily "no bond."
They simply want the community to think it over carefully.
"Let's get together as a community and do smaller bonds, lower pace bonds, lower interest rate bonds. Bonds that we can pay off in 10-15 years," said Philip Klein, treasurer for a bond opposition group. "That we don't strap these children that are walking into Kindergarten who will be 47 years old before these bonds are paid off."
He claims to have the backing of some business owners.
"This out of control spending by school districts has got to stop," said Philip. "This out of control spending and passing it along to our children has got to stop. It's time for fiscal responsibility."
Both sides can agree, they want what's best for the City of Nederland.