Construction on the Central Lee School District's campus near Donnellson is expected to increase significantly in the next few years. That’s because residents on Tuesday approved a $12.9 million bond issue to pay for facility improvements.
State law requires 60% approval to pass a bond issue. Central Lee received 66% support from the nearly 1,000 residents who voted in the special election. A similar bond issue failed in 2018 after receiving just 57% support.
Superintendent Andy Crozier said in a statement the district is grateful for the support of the community.
“The work done tonight will positively impact Central Lee students for the next 40 years,” said Dr. Crozier. “With the approval of the bond, the district will be able to move forward on several key projects to expand 21st century learning opportunities and further enhance safety and security in our schools.
“We would like to thank everyone who took part in this process, including those who attended our forums and provided us with their feedback and input. We look forward to more positive conversations about the future of the Central Lee schools in the future.”
The bond issue will help pay for new secure entrances to the high school and the K-8 building. It will also help fund the addition of a new gymnasium, a new preschool space, and new rooms for performing arts programs, among other things.
Construction is expected to get underway at the end of the school year.
Crozier said the bond issue will not increase the district’s property tax rate of $12.19/$1,000 of assessed valuation because the district's overall property value increasing by 24%.
He said the district will also commit sales tax revenue to the projects to keep the property tax rate stable.
