ST. CLOUD -- Community members voiced their opinions and asked questions this (Monday) evening on the upcoming District 724 bond referendum.

A classroom was filled with people either for or against a $167-million-dollar referendum that will be brought for a vote with plans to build a new Tech High School and update Apollo High School.

Jamison Schwartz opposes the referendum and says he would like to see other alternatives besides an all or nothing vote.

"I feel a little crammed into one idea and option, I mean there is always more than one solution to a problem and we are only offered one right now," says Schwartz.

If the referendum passes, the owner of a $150,000 home can expect to pay an additional $218-dollars a year.

Diana Podawiltz is in favor of the referendum and says a new Tech school would be great for the entire community.

"I think it's time to step up to the plate and make this happen.This is a great community, we need great schools, we have great teachers but Tech is not a feasible place for the students to be anymore," says Podawiltz.

The district hopes to start construction in the fall of 2016, with hopes of opening the new high school in the fall of 2018.

The referendum will be brought to a vote on November 3rd.

This is the first of four community forums put on by the Neighbors For School Excellence organization. The next is schedule for for October 12th at 7:00 p.m. at St. Cloud City Hall.

More From AM 1240 WJON