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September 9th: West Delaware Decides on PPEL Funding

Residents of West Delaware County, located in Manchester, IA, will cast their votes on the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) of the local school district on Tuesday.

Vote on West Delaware's PPEL scheduled for September 9th
Vote on West Delaware's PPEL scheduled for September 9th

West Delaware County Community School District Seeks Renewal of Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL)

September 9th: West Delaware Decides on PPEL Funding

The West Delaware County Community School District is set to vote on the renewal of its Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) on Tuesday, September 9. This measure, if approved, will allow the district to maintain the same property tax rate through 2036, ensuring that property taxes will not be raised.

What is the PPEL?

The PPEL is a funding mechanism used by school districts to support the maintenance, improvement, and equipment needs of school facilities. It is typically used for facility maintenance, equipment purchases, and capital projects.

Impact on Property Taxes

The PPEL is funded through property taxes, which means that homeowners and businesses within the school district may see an increase in their property tax bills. The current PPEL has a rate of $0.67 per $1,000 of taxable property value.

Impact on School Facilities

The renewal of the PPEL can have several positive impacts on school facilities. It ensures improved infrastructure, enhanced technology, and better maintenance, preventing deterioration of facilities and reducing the need for costly repairs over time.

Voting Details

The deadline to request a mailed absentee ballot from the Delaware County Auditor's Office is August 25. In-person absentee voting will be available through the auditor's office beginning August 20. On voting day, in-person absentee voting and the polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. A valid ID is required to vote.

Importance of the PPEL

The district relies on the PPEL to address many of its maintenance and equipment needs. The funds from the PPEL have been used for various purposes, including upgrading HVAC systems, repairing roofs, purchasing buses and vans, replacing computers and hardware, maintaining athletic facilities, purchasing musical instruments and equipment, and installing new signage.

In the recent fiscal year, the PPEL generated over $510,000 for the district. The PPEL is in place at more than 85 percent of Iowa school districts and must be renewed every 10 years. The district is asking voters to consider renewing the levy to allow the district to continue making critical investments.

More information about West Delaware CCSD's PPEL, including answers to frequently asked questions, is available at www.westdelawareppel.org. Voted PPEL measures require voter approval of at least 50 percent.

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