NLCSD explains Public Measure JZ on ballot

NEW LONDON — During next week’s local elections, many Henry County voters will be asked to vote yes or no on New London Community School District’s Public Measure JZ.

While the ballot asks if this public measure shall be adopted, NLCSD clarifies that this measure is designed to renew the current New London Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) and comes to voters now because due to a 10-year expiration designated by legislation on each PPEL.

Information released by the school district further explained what a voted PPEL is, the history of the PPEL in NLCSD, how it can be used, and other important information.

“This is not a new tax; it is just a renewal of our current PPEL fund of $. 67 per $1000 of assessed valuation of the taxable property,” the district stated in information distributed asking the public to show up to the poles Nov. 7.

NLCSD clarifies that this will not increase taxes.

School districts may only use PPEL funds to support school district facilities and equipment, they may not use them for salaries and benefits.

According to NLCSD, this current rate at $. 67 per $1,000 on property tax was voter-approved in 2014.

Since NLCSD’s PPEL’s current rate approval, “ … the funds have been used to replace roofs on buildings to purchase new transportation vehicles, upgrades to security systems, to purchase staff and student computers, to add a new school marquee sign, to upgrade the district phone system, and to enhance or improve several facilities across the district,” literature released from the NLCSD states.

This literature also states projected future use of PPEL funds to include replacing 12 passenger vans, replacing the roof, and upgrading the fire alarm system.

Historically, the school district has received $141,000 annually from voted and regular PPEL.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com