The need to upgrade schools will be the most common issue Northwest Missouri voters decide on Tuesday.

A number of school districts are asking voters to approve sums as large as $6 million. Stewartsville's request, the smallest at $750,000, would include basic roof repairs, restroom renovations, new flooring, new windows, and other items such as a building security system.

North Platte R-1's request for $6 million includes deciding whether to repair or build a new school at Edgerton.

Also included in the tax issues will be an upgrade of Holt County's 911 emergency call service. For the first time since 1996, the Holt County commissioners want taxpayers to increase the 911 sales tax, from a quarter-cent to a half-cent.

"It's become a major function of this county's government, and the equipment needs to be upgraded after 13 years," said Mark Sitherwood, the presiding commissioner.

A quarter-cent increase would mean another $80,000 a year, said Kathy Kunkel, Holt County clerk. The county's goal is to upgrade the electronics and computers, Ms. Kunkel said. If voters approve the increase, the county will begin some work in January.

Holt County wants to move the 911 call center from the jail to the new county annex building that's being constructed on the courthouse square. Employees are paid minimum wage, and some funds would be used to increase salaries so the county could attract a larger pool of workers, Mr. Sitherwood said.

"We want to make sure citizens have top-notch emergency services," the commissioner said.

A 40-year-old water system is causing problems for Maysville and its residents. A city official says it needs $2 million in local bonds to match possible state and federal grants, as well as low-interest loans.

During the past eight years, the water loss has been in excess of 30 percent, stated Pat Fisher-Johnson, the city clerk. That translates to an annual water loss of 16 million gallons. And the system doesn't provide adequate pressure for residents living on the town's west side, she said.

In order to meet regulatory requirements, replace about 20,000 feet of water lines and construct a 100,000-gallon water tower, the city would pursue grants and low-interest loans from the state and federal government, matched with the bond money.

Harrison County Water Supply District No. 2 is seeking to repair and improve its system, and is asking voters to approve the issuance of $6 million in bonds.

Marshall White can be contacted

at marshall@npgco.com.