In discussing these two items one of the contention points is how much does Orem receive? Those for a split argue that because so much of the capital dollars from bonds go out of Orem that Orem is not receiving its fair share. Those against the split argue that the operations costs Orem receives offset this capital loss and Orem actually receives more than its fair share.

As you explore these issues and decide where you stand there are two important things that you should be aware of.

First, is the capital expenditure. During the last 16 years approximately $130 million of Orem property taxes have been spent in other cities within Alpine School District. The 2022 bond proposal guarantees Orem will receive $14 million to build a third gym at both Mt. Timpanogos High and Orem High. The cost in Orem taxes for this will be roughly $116 million or $102 million more than they will receive.

The second item is the operations costs. On the surface Orem students, specifically in Title I schools, receive more money per student than other students within Alpine School District. However, the state auditor found that in Alpine School District Title I students receive less money per student than non Title I students when accounting for all factors. Click this link for the full report.

It’s up to you to decide how you will vote. But if the numbers from the state auditor are accurate, then Orem’s at risk students receive less operations money per student and contribute substantially more to the other communities than they receive in capital funds. Orem students deserve better.

James Eagar, Orem