Understanding the USD 251 bond one fact at a time!
FUN FACT #16: What About Capital Outlay?
Did you know?
USD 251 already uses its Capital Outlay Fund to invest in our schools.
For the 2025–26 school year, USD 251’s total school mill levy was approximately 39.01 mills. Of that total, 7.885 mills were dedicated specifically to Capital Outlay, generating approximately $822,000 in local revenue.
So, what does Capital Outlay pay for?
Capital Outlay funds can be used for important long-term needs such as building repairs, remodeling, equipment, technology, maintenance, transportation equipment, and other qualifying capital expenses.
That investment matters. It helps our community maintain and improve the schools we have today.
But there is an important distinction: Capital Outlay is an annual funding source. It is not the same as having enough money available to construct an entirely new high school or complete a major district-wide facility project.
So when you hear, “Why doesn’t USD 251 just use Capital Outlay?” — the answer is: USD 251 already does.
Capital Outlay helps us maintain and improve what we have. A bond provides a different funding mechanism for a much larger project.
At the heart of this conversation are our students and our community. The question before us is how we continue investing in schools that serve the children and families of USD 251.
Taking care of what we have matters. So does looking at what our students need next.
For more information on the USD 251 bond visit: https://www.usd251.org/page/usd-251-bond-information
As always reach out if you have any questions or want to get involved!
Sources:
Kansas State Department of Education — 2025–26 Capital Outlay Data
Kansas Legislature — Capital Outlay Fund Authorized Uses
