But if east-side cities form their own school district, the west side could end up with triple the tax burden of the east side, should it vote for a bond, district projections show.

But Cottonwood Heights Mayor Kelvyn Cullimore says the tax estimates may be too high, and drop over time. "It's a temporary issue for several years, until the assessed valuation of the west side catches up," he said.

He says the east's and west's needs are so disparate — the district lists the east for three school buildings, the west, 22 — that a split might benefit all.

Sandy city, in a prepared statement, called the district's information "a good first step at examining the potential impacts a new school district may have. However, the projections regarding future tax rates, debt service and assessed valuation of respective cities is deserving of more in-depth and thorough analysis."

But Riverton Mayor Bill Applegarth thinks a split could devastate the west side. He says west-siders would be left with the bond bill, which might not be as high as needed because of potential diminished bonding capacity under a split, plus jam-packed schools or double sessions.

"The problem is a district problem," Applegarth said, adding many east-side residents' children and grandchildren have moved to the west. "We can solve it together, better, as (one) district."

West Jordan will watch for the feasibility study's results, and could seek to form its own city school district as a result, Newton said.

"We need to face the facts. If they pull out, it's giving us the opportunity to say 'Where are we at?' and go from there" to best serve West Jordan residents, Newton said. "West Jordan is big enough to be its own district."

Newbold hopes the information, which will be presented in three public gatherings beginning Jan. 31, results in informed decisions.

"It really is the beginning of outlining for our patrons how it is Jordan School District and its Board of Education will meet the educational needs of students in a rapidly growing district," Newbold said. "I'm very confident we will be able to provide excellent educational services to students. How they are housed is an issue that really remains to be seen."

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E-mail: jtcook@desnews.com