Investing for Success: MHCC’s Bond Initiative

At Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC), we are focused on what lies ahead. We are imagining a future where everyone feels safe and welcome to learn and work together, where different educational programs come together to create even better opportunities. The college is moving toward this brighter future by potentially placing a bond measure on the November ballot.

“Mt. Hood Community College has always been committed to providing quality education and career paths for all our students,” MHCC President Dr. Lisa Skari said. “This potential bond initiative is not just about buildings; it’s about investing in the future of our students and our community.”

The last time a bond was passed for MHCC was in 1974 and the needs of the college have evolved since then, including updates to infrastructure and facilities. With a proposed bond amount of $131 million, crafted based on strategic planning and input from community members within MHCC’s district, MHCC aims to address needs across many fronts. From creating modernized learning spaces to ensuring the safety and accessibility of facilities, the bond initiative seeks to update the college for the benefit of all. The average total cost to district residences would be $5 per month.

One of the key highlights of the potential proposed bond is the establishment of a Center for Health Professions, catering to the growing demand in the healthcare field. By reusing existing spaces and fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration, MHCC aims to give students the skills and knowledge needed for success in the workforce. The bond funds would also be used for updating science labs and classrooms and enhancing safety measures such as lockdown abilities and seismic retrofitting. Updates to athletic facilities, including a pool cover that would allow for year-round use, will not only benefit students but also give to the local economy by attracting events to East Multnomah County.

MHCC wants to hear from people in MHCC’s district about how they feel about the proposed bond. Community members are asked to help by either visiting mhccbond.com and filling out the feedback form or emailing [email protected] and sharing their thoughts.

Looking ahead, the MHCC District Board of Education will review the details of the proposal and make a choice about whether to proceed with placing the bond on the November ballot this summer. This choice will be made with community input, the best use of finances, and the college’s long-term vision in mind.