×

South Tama trying again for PPEL renewal

The renewal of the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy failed by one vote in September in the South Tama County School District. The district will try again for a 10-year renewal of the PPEL during a special election Tuesday.

The levy is not a new tax and would keep in place the current PPEL of $1.34 per $1,000 valuation of taxable property in the district.

The PPEL pays for facility needs and can’t be used for staff salaries or school supplies. South Tama Superintendent Kerri Nelson said among the facility priorities this levy could fund would include a new boiler at the high school and other facility improvements at the school, updated security systems, and upkeep of an aging middle school facility.

“It’s an important part of our financial stability in the district,” Nelson said “It’s really important to maintain our buildings and infrastructure.”

Nelson said 245 of the 374 school districts in Iowa have a PPEL in place, including many area schools.

The vote in September had 150 “no’ votes to 149 “yes” votes. The measure needs a simple majority of 50 percent plus one vote to pass.

“We definitely feel it is important to try again,” Nelson said.

Polls are open from noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Tama Civic Center, Reinig Center in Toledo, Meskwaki Settlement tribal center, Chelsea fire station and the Montour community building.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.38/week.

Subscribe Today