FELICITY — The Ohio School Facilities Commission would fund 91 percent of a $15 million construction project for the Felicity-Franklin Schools if voters approve a 2-mill bond issue Nov. 6.

        The bond issue would provide $1.3 million for the project, or just less than nine cents for every dollar the state would spend. Without the local money, the project would not move forward.

        “Without the state, we wouldn't be able to do this,” said Roger Hornsby, superintendent of this 84-square mile, rural Clermont County school district of 1,250. “It would take us over 20 mills to do this.”

        Felicity-Franklin Schools are the 13th-poorest in the state and have a property valuation of only $51 million, Mr. Hornsby said.

        “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for us,” he said. “It's the best deal in town.”

        The plan was put together by the commission and the school board. It includes construction of a 65,692-square-foot high school large enough for about 500 students. All but the gymnasium of the existing high school as well as the old elementary school would be torn down. Money is also set aside for removing asbestos before the two buildings are demolished.

        A 10,193-square-foot addition would be built at the middle school, which will also be air-conditioned. The plan calls for installation of a fire alarm system, a sprinkler system, new furnishings and replacement of ceiling tiles and casework.

        Projects at the four-year-old elementary school include improving parking, installing a security system, updating lighting and making the school more accessible to the handicapped.

        To get the message out to the public, the Felicity-Franklin School Bond Issue Committee is sponsoring a parade Sunday that begins at 2 p.m. at the high school, goes through the village and ends back at the high school. Snacks will be provided at the school. A series of four fliers explaining the benefits are being distributed and large signs are placed at intersections. A telephone canvass is also planned.

        The ballot issue also includes a five-year, 0.5-mill maintenance levy that would begin in 2019. It would provide about $26,000 annually. The single ballot question, if approved, would cost the owner of a house with a market value of $100,000, an additional $61.25 annually.

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