Frequently Asked Questions

 

We invite you to learn more about Estherville Lincoln Central’s voted PPEL and review answers to frequently asked questions below:

 

What is a voted PPEL?

A PPEL is a voter-approved levy that generates funds a school district can use for infrastructure and equipment repairs, purchases and improvements. Funds may be used only for these purposes. 

 

The community approved a voted PPEL for the district in 2014. The vote on September 13 is to renew that PPEL, at the exact same tax rate.

 

How has the district used PPEL funds over the past eight years?

The funds provided through the current voted PPEL have been critically important for Estherville Lincoln Central. The district has used these funds for the following purposes:

• District emergency warning systems

• Tuckpointing

• Indoor and outdoor concrete work and flooring

• Revenue bond payments on middle school building projects

• Security cameras

• Technology updates

• Safety and security

• High school gym air conditioning

• Student information system

• Accounting software

• Updating phone systems

• Updating buildings and grounds (windows, flooring, painting, etc.)

 

The current PPEL will sunset in 2024. ELC will lose access to the funds to cover these items if a replacement PPEL is not approved by the community.

 

If voters approve the PPEL on September 13, how would the district use the funds?

If residents approve the voted PPEL on September 13, the district would use the funds largely for the following purposes:

• Buildings and grounds maintenance and upkeep

• Technology advancements for students

• Buying down building debt

 

As we continue to focus on preparing students for the career and college opportunities of the future, we must ensure they have access to these critical resources and services. 

 

What would happen if the PPEL is not renewed?

If PPEL is not renewed by voters on September 13, the district would need to pull money from the general fund to support building upkeep, transportation, and technology. This would likely lead to cuts to programs, services, and staffing.

 

How would an approved PPEL affect property taxes?

If the question on the ballot is approved, the PPEL rate would remain the same and there would be no increase in the property tax rate. This is because the ELC School Board is simply asking residents to renew the voted PPEL currently in place, at the same rate.

 

The district and board have always looked to minimize impacts on our community members when it comes to property taxes. By renewing the district’s PPEL, we will be able to keep making investments to protect our district’s assets and ensure our students continue to have the opportunities they need to succeed and thrive. 

 

What is the district’s current PPEL rate?

The current PPEL rate is $1.34 per every $1,000 of assessed property value in the ELC Community School District. This rate would remain the same if the residents approve the renewal of the voted PPEL on September 13. 

 

When is election day?

The election date is Tuesday, September 13, 2022.

 

Where can I vote on September 13?

Voters may cast their ballots at their regular polling location on Tuesday, September 13. Polling location information is available here: https://sos.iowa.gov/elections/

 

Can I cast an absentee ballot in this election?

Yes! Registered voters may request an absentee ballot ahead of election day. Learn more at https://emmetcounty.iowa.gov/auditor/.