On November 5, when local voters head to the polls to elect School Board and City Council members, two additional measures will appear on their ballots: the revenue purpose statement for Secure an Advanced Vision for Education or SAVE continuation and the Iowa Valley Community College District (IVCCD, a.k.a Merged Area 6) $32 million bond referendum. We, as the board of the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce, encourage voters to vote “YES” to both of these measures when they head to the polls.

Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE) is a funding stream utilized by local school districts to invest in infrastructure and provides school district property tax relief. In Marshalltown, this has meant just over $60 million for the school district since 2004. Since the district began receiving sales tax revenue in 2004, these funds have been dedicated to technology and construction upgrades, including the MHS Roundhouse, as well as debt reduction. Continuing the revenue purpose for this 1 cent sales tax measure means the district will have flexibility in funding future infrastructure projects that will support students and staff.

At the community college, approving the $32 million will mean improvements to safety and security of students, faculty, staff, and visitors; expanded job training in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields; continued dual credit opportunities; improved facilities; and expanded job training for local employers.

Both of these measures mean strengthening educational experiences for students in Marshalltown. Please vote “YES” when you cast your vote.