West University Place voters are being asked to approve Proposition D, a bond measure on the May 2025 ballot. This FAQ-style explainer atempts to objectively break down what Prop D entails, why it’s on the ballot, and the key points of debate.
What’s being proposed?
Proposition D would authorize up to $15.07 million in bonds to design and build a new Community Building/Senior Center and Library, along with related community open-space improvements (City of West U). In essence, it’s a plan to replace West U’s community center and library with a modern civic campus that combines those facilities in one updated complex. This project is identified as Phase II of the city’s Facilities Master Plan, which envisions a civic center with improved greenspace, parking, and an efficient layout for the new building(s).
Importantly, Prop D is the only bond proposition on this ballot related to city facilities. Initially, city leaders had considered a broader package of projects – including a new City Hall and a revamped Public Safety (police/fire) building – but ultimately only the Community/Senior Center & Library project was put forward for voter approval, as it drew the most public feedback. The idea is to let residents decide on this core project now and defer or reconsider the other facility projects later.
It is also not yet determined what will happen to the current buildings if the bond passes. While a new facility would be built, the fate of the existing structures would be decided in a later phase of planning.
How is it being paid for?
Prop D will be funded by a general obligation bond, meaning the city borrows up to $15.07M and repays it using property tax revenue. This is a voter-approved debt, and the tax impact has been detailed above.
West U’s AAA bond rating should help secure low-interest rates when the bonds are issued, reducing long-term costs.
Will this affect the city’s bond rating?
According to city officials, Prop D alone should not affect West U’s AAA bond rating. The city’s tax base is strong, and its existing debt level is moderate. Even if the city takes on additional debt for other projects (like water system upgrades), financial experts believe West U can maintain its AAA rating.
How will it impact property taxes?
If Prop D passes, property taxes will increase slightly to repay the bonds. The estimated impact is:
$0.00910 per $100 of taxable value added to the tax rate.
For an average West U home ($1.57 million taxable value), this equals $11.94 per month or $143 per year.
Over the 30-year bond life, that homeowner would pay approximately $3,582.
These calculations assume a 4.75% interest rate over 30 years. You can use the City’s Bond Tax Calculator to see a personalized estimate based on your home’s value.
What will it do to traffic?
So far, no formal traffic impact study has been completed. The proposed civic center would be built on the same site as the current Community Building and Library, so the daily traffic pattern is expected to remain similar. The city has promised an urban planning process to ensure parking and circulation are well-designed.
During construction, there could be temporary disruptions like truck activity and possible lane closures, but no major road reconstruction is planned as part of this bond.
What’s wrong with the old buildings?
Supporters argue that the existing Community Building (built in 1941, with additions in 1986) and Library (built in 1961) are small, outdated, and expensive to maintain.
Size constraints: The combined facility space is 11,500 sq ft, while the proposed new building would be 21,000 sq ft.
Aging infrastructure: Issues with fire safety, ADA accessibility, HVAC, plumbing, and outdated design limit usability.
Not optimized for modern needs: The library lacks seating and technology space, and senior center rooms are not well-suited for current programming.
Instead of continual repairs, the city believes that rebuilding is more cost-effective long-term.
What Are Opponents Saying?
Opponents argue Prop D is too expensive, unnecessary, or not the city’s top priority right now. Key concerns include:
Cost: $15M is too high; some favor renovation instead of rebuilding.
Process: Some feel the plan lacked transparency and rushed public input.
Priorities: Infrastructure like drainage and water should be addressed first.
Necessity: The current buildings, though old, are still functional.
Future debt: Passing this could limit the city’s ability to borrow for more critical needs later.
Supporters counter that renovation would cost nearly as much, the facilities are outdated, and infrastructure needs are being addressed separately.
What does this have to do with the Water Facility?
Some residents have argued that the city should prioritize fixing its aging water facilities before funding new civic buildings. While West U’s water system does need major upgrades, these projects are funded separately through utility fees and revenue bonds, not general property taxes.
The city has already approved $1.89 million in engineering contracts to start design work on water system improvements, which are expected to be funded through different bonds. Approving Prop D will not affect water facility funding, as these projects follow distinct financial tracks.
Why has this been so contentious?
Several factors have fueled debate over Prop D:
Scope & Cost: Some residents feel the city initially proposed too large a project and should focus on essentials first.
Taxes & Priorities: While the tax impact is small, some argue that funds should go toward infrastructure like drainage and water rather than community buildings.
Trust & Process: A previous failed attempt to relocate City Hall led to skepticism about city planning decisions.
Ultimately, the debate is about whether the benefits of a new civic center outweigh the costs. West U voters will decide whether to move forward with Prop D or revisit alternative solutions in the future.
What do you think?
I think a lot of people I have talked to have said they need more information about Prop D. I have tried to objectively lay it all out there in this article so you can make your own decision. If you want my point of view, you can check it out here.
You can find a lot more about Prop D (for and against) below:
the City of West U has their explainer here.
Building for Tomorrow is a PAC that supports Prop D, they put together their information here.
The petition against Prop D has put their explanation here.
Clay Brett, current city council member running for reelection, expresses his views here.
Matt Hart, current city council member running for reelection, expresses his support here.
Kalie Jackura Rainsberger, council candidate, expresses her disapproval here.
John Barnes, council candidate, expresses his disapproval here.
Dr. John Bertini is also opposed, but I can’t find any information on their websites about Proposition D specifically.
(to be updated as needed)
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Thank you for your clear, concise explanation! This is excellent.