Voters To Decide Again On Proposition ECC

Voters in the East Central College (ECC) Taxing District will decide on Proposition ECC during the April 8 ballot. 

The measure aims to fund major modernization and renovation projects at ECC’s Union campus while keeping the total property tax levy unchanged.

If approved, the proposal would transfer 9.9 cents from the current debt service levy to the operations levy, maintaining the total property tax rate at 44.72 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. The levy shift would allow ECC to retire its debt service in early 2026 while ensuring long-term financial stability.

The levy adjustment would cost homeowners $18.81 per year for a $100,000 home and $56.43 for a $300,000 home. ECC officials argue the investment will enhance education and workforce development, supporting local businesses and industries. A 2024 economic impact study found ECC contributes $110.9 million annually to the regional economy, supporting 1,891 jobs—or 1 in every 26 jobs in the district.

Proposition ECC would fund a $12.2 million modernization plan, expected to rise to $15 million due to inflation. Projects include upgrades to six academic buildings, two of which date back to the 1970s and 1980s, infrastructure repairs such as parking lot and road improvements, new security lighting, and asbestos removal. It would also fund new construction, including a 7,000 square foot welding training facility to meet workforce demand and a 10,000 square foot storage facility to repurpose space for classrooms and labs. 

Additional improvements include a walking trail, restroom upgrades, elevator replacements, and sewer line repairs. The proposal also helps cover rising costs for utilities and healthcare.

This is the second attempt to pass Proposition ECC. Voters rejected a similar measure last year, with the majority of voters in Franklin County and most other counties in the district voting against it. While it received some support in Warren and Gasconade counties, the proposal fell short of the necessary majority needed to pass.

If voters reject the measure again, the college would need to fund campus improvements through existing budgets, potentially leading to cuts in programs and services.

Eligible voters include residents of school districts in Franklin County and parts of Crawford, Gasconade, St. Charles, Warren, and Washington Counties. 

The measure has been endorsed by local economic groups, including Downtown Washington, Inc., and the Union Development Corporation.