People driving through Leachville or Monette may be confused about the signs lining the streets reading “Vote No!” and “Vote for Our Kids.” But to the people living in the Buffalo Island community, these signs are all too familiar and have caused  people on both sides to develop strong opinions about tomorrow’s vote to raise the millage for a new school.

One of the main points that opponents bring up is that the towns will deteriorate if they build the new school outside of Monette or Leachville. Brandon Decker, a community member, feels that building it outside of the two towns will help improve the community.

“What’s hurting the towns is that there hasn’t been any growth, even with the schools we have,” Decker said. “This school will force the towns to grow out towards it.”

Another issue regarding the millage is the tax increase that will be brought about. Monette resident Johnny Dunigan feels that it isn’t the best option for the community.

“I know the elderly are voting against it because they’re on a fixed income,” Dunigan said. “They don’t believe they can pay the increased millage. Personally, I’m not against the increase if I thought it was a good idea. I believe that if we’re going to spend 9 mills, we should spend it in a wiser manner.”

At the recent public meetings, several people expressed a concern about the lack of a police presence in the proposed area. Since the school would be outside of the city limits for both towns, those speaking out said they worried that the Monette and Leachville police won’t be able to respond if an emergency occurs. However, at a later meeting superintendent Gaylon Taylor stated that Leachville and Monette police would be able to respond to any sort of emergency, and when county police arrived, they would assume authority.

Although community members may not agree on all aspects of this possible change, many agree on one thing. Improvements should be made to the safety aspect of school.

Matthew Sills, a BIC teacher, made the point that there are a total of 12 buildings that would have to be locked during an emergency. With the proposed school, there would be one building to lock.

Hoof Prints will post updates to this story throughout Election Day.