NEWTON, Kan. — Officials say ballots have been mailed to residents within the Newton school district over a couple of questions regarding a proposed bond issue.

The ballots will come with a postage-paid return envelope so residents can drop them in the mail, bring them to the Harvey County Election Office in the courthouse or drop them off in the payment box found on the south side of the courthouse.

Ballots are due back to the election office by noon on Sept. 3.

The upcoming bond issues are made up of two questions that school officials say will help prepare the district for the future.

The first question is for a bond amount of $61,320,000 and would be used for an update to Newton High School.

That includes safety and security upgrades, a science wing addition, a remodel of the auditorium and district kitchen, a new storm shelter and gym, and a remodel of classrooms.

Also included is the safety and security at Chisholm Middle School and Santa Fe 5/6 Center, safety and security at the elementary schools, Santa Fe and Chisholm deferred maintenance and deferred maintenance at all elementary schools.

The second question is for a bond amount of $24,420,000. This amount is for a new school south of Newton. It would be a kindergarten through sixth grade building. The building will have three sections so there is room for growth.