Birmingham Public Schools seeks $240 million bond for safety, infrastructure upgrades and career prep

Birmingham Public Schools is asking voters on Nov. 3 to approve a 20-year, $240 million bond tied to safety, infrastructure repairs and career preparation. Superintendent Embekka Roberson told MLive that if the bond passes, the district would keep the current tax rate. Bond money would fund security upgrades such as replacing security cameras, emergency radios and backup generators, along with an evaluation of enhanced emergency notification systems to speed contact with medical professionals, police or fire. The district would also expand early childhood education and strengthen pre-college and career readiness for older students. Roberson said bond proceeds can’t be used for salaries, only capital outlay or technology. The superintendent argued delaying repairs could cost more later and noted a 97% graduation rate.