INDEPENDENCE -- After a series of failed bond referendums, advocates for a new high school hope to end the streak.

Voters in the Independence School District have so far rejected five plans to fix or replace the existing building. Another election -- scheduled Dec. 16 -- falls almost two years to the day after they voted down the last proposal.

The new plan calls for a $19 million building. More than half of that figure -- $11.78 million -- will come from public bonds. The remainder will come from statewide 1 percent sales tax revenues.

Several supporters showed up to hear a little more Monday night at a forum staged by People 4 Progress, a citizens group lobbying for the bond.

"It better go. I want it so bad," said Janny Budzine, a parent of several students.

Budzine, whose youngest child is in ninth grade, said she is tired of seeing science rooms overcrowded with kids. She added the facilities make it difficult for students and faculty.

"I don't even know why the teachers stay," she said.

The existing building is more than 50 years old and was originally designed as a junior high. Besides tight quarters, the building also faces some regulatory hurdles.

Brian Eddy, co-chairman of People 4 Progress, said the school contains at least six code violations, ranging from inadequate sprinklers to too few emergency exits and exits that are too narrow. The school's wooden roof, which sags and collects rain, is also an issue, he said.

There are also security issues. Because of the cramped quarters, some classes meet in outbuildings. Consequently, Eddy said not all doors can remain locked.

"No matter what you do, you have to have some doors open so kids can come and go," he said. Architects estimate repairing and remodeling the school would cost $11 million.

According to the plans, the new structure will cover 135,000 square feet, which is 32,000 square feet larger than the existing school. The new building will be on 92 acres next to the middle school, and that should provide enough space for expansion, if needed, according to advocates.

The plans also call for the building to be more environmentally friendly and energy efficient, utilizing such things as geothermal heating and cooling systems and better building materials. Supporters caution, however, they aren't distracted by bells and whistles.

"It needs to be a place for education, a useful place and a cost-effective place" said Jon Holland, co-chairman of People 4 Progress.

School officials struggled with how to move forward after the bond referendum in 2006. Those backing the concept spent more time soliciting opinions. Holland said that has also been the approach of People 4 Progress.

"The whole idea here is an exchange of information, not cutting anyone out," Holland said. The proposed bond would increase property taxes by $2.70 per $1,000 of assessed taxable valuation. For a $100,000 home, annual taxes would go up about $105.

The next forum will begin at 7 p.m. Monday at Heartland Acres Agribition Center in Independence. For information, go online at www.people4progress.org.

Contact Josh Nelson at 291-1565 or josh.nelson@wcfcourier.com.