Future Meeting – Bond Process

October 8th – Needs/Challenges Facing the District
November 12th – Establishing Goals Workshop
December 10th – Bond Options Workshop

Meeting #2 – September 17, 2024

This meeting took place at Wilson Middle School Auditorium at 6:00 PM.

Meeting recap:

The Cedar Rapids Community School District’s facilities task force recently met to discuss funding sources and their respective uses and restrictions. The three primary funding sources explored were:

1. Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL): This funding source is typically used for purchasing and improving grounds, buildings, and equipment. It has specific limitations on what it can be used for, often excluding operational costs.
2. Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE): SAVE funds are derived from a state-wide sales tax and are used for infrastructure improvements, technology purchases, and other capital projects. They have more flexibility compared to PPEL but are still restricted from covering operational expenses.
3. Bond Referendum: Bonds are used for large-scale capital projects like building new schools or major renovations. They require voter approval and are repaid over time through property taxes.

During the meeting, participants engaged in table discussions to identify important values for the school district. Each table selected a spokesperson to report common themes, which will help guide the development of the facilities plan.

In addition to discussing the funding sources, the Cedar Rapids Community School District’s facilities task force engaged in a hands-on activity designed to apply their understanding of these financial resources. Participants were given a list of potential school projects, each with associated costs, and asked to utilize the available funding sources to plan and sequence these projects effectively. The funding sources included:

• PPEL: With an annual budget of $14,000,000.
• SAVE: With an annual budget of $20,000,000.

The task force was challenged to create a timeline for project sequencing that strategically utilized these budgets. Each team was responsible for developing a plan that prioritized projects based on importance and feasibility within the constraints of the available funding. Teams then reported their plans, highlighting how they balanced immediate needs with long-term goals while adhering to the specific uses and restrictions of each funding source. This exercise aimed to foster collaborative planning and awareness of complexities and challenges associated with financial resources and efficient allocation to enhance the district’s facilities.

Participants concluded by provided feedback (see attachment).

Meeting #1 – August 13, 2024

This meeting took place at Maple Grove Elementary School’s cafeteria