On Tuesday, March 5, South Tama County Community School District residents will vote on a voted Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL). As your superintendent, I urge you to know the facts.

PPEL is a voter-approved levy that generates funds for infrastructure and equipment repairs, purchases and improvements. Per state law, PPEL funds can only be used for these purposes.

As we continue to focus on preparing students for future career and college opportunities, our district must ensure they have access to critical resources and services. And in light of the Perry tragedy, it is important to upgrade the safety and security within all of our buildings, specifically at our high school.

Of Iowa’s 331 public school districts, more than 85% have a voted PPEL in place for FY2024. In fact, most Iowa schools have had it in place for over a quarter century. STC has infrastructure needs. This levy will allow our district to leverage the funding necessary to enhance the safety of our learning environment and continue to maintain facilities across our district.

With an approved voted PPEL of $1.00 per $1,000 of assessed value, we intend to offset the $1.00 increase with reductions to other areas. This is possible through a mixture of income surtax with the PPEL and altering other levies. South Tama’s current overall tax rate is $14.45, and with an approved voted PPEL, South Tama’s projected tax rate would be around $14.50. That is a difference of $.05 per $1000 of assessed value.

Specifically, the district plans to use these funds to expand the grades 7-12 VocAg program, upgrade the high school cafeteria and gymnasium, purchase technology upgrades, and improve school safety. Funds would also go toward roof repairs and replacement, HVAC system maintenance and upgrades, and replacement of aging school buses.

Community engagement throughout this process is critical. We need a strong school district. Please be responsible for knowing the facts. Anyone who would like more information should visit www.southtamacountyppel.org.

On behalf of STC, I want to thank our community for the engagement and support you have shown throughout this process. We challenge our voters to be educated on this topic, place trust in our Board and District as our future depends upon you. Your vote on March 5 is a vote for our community, our children and our future. Please vote. Thank you.