Please direct inquiries to:
Shane Knoche, 563-374-1292
sknoche@cal-wheat.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 26, 2024

Calamus-Wheatland CSD School Board Approves Bond Petition

Residents collecting signatures from eligible voters for November 5 referendum

WHEATLAND, IOWA — The Calamus-Wheatland Community School District Board of Education approved a petition on July 15 seeking a $7.51 million general obligation bond referendum to be placed on the ballot for Tuesday, November 5, 2024.

This referendum would finance improvements at the district’s campuses in Calamus and Wheatland. Residents are now gathering signatures from eligible voters to potentially bring this to a vote in November.

Once the required number of signatures are obtained as required by Iowa Code, the petition can be formally submitted to the Board of Education to request the bond referendum be added to the November ballot.

The board and administration at Calamus-Wheatland CSD emphasized pursuing cost-effective projects that improve student safety and security and expand educational opportunities.

At the high school, plans include creating a new secure entrance with a canopy, upgrading mechanical systems, and replacing windows, flooring, and fixtures throughout the building. Renovations are also planned for the art room, and the fine arts programs would benefit from improvements to the stage area and audio enhancements in the gymnasium.

A new addition with a connection corridor to the main building would be constructed. This area would house a new ag classroom, a Career and Technical Education lab, an additional classroom, and an outdoor workspace. It will provide students with practical training and experience in emerging career fields like the trades and allow for more programming in areas such as agriculture and industrial technology.

“The projects at the high school allow the district to meet our goals of improving safety and providing more resources and opportunities for students to be prepared for careers and education beyond graduation,” said Superintendent Shane Knoche.

At the elementary school, the commons area would undergo renovation, mechanical system improvements are planned, and new kitchen equipment would be purchased.

Since 2013, Calamus-Wheatland CSD’s total tax levy rate has declined by more than 15% to $11.76 per $1,000 of assessed property value. An approved bond issue on November 5 would result in a tax impact of up to $2.70 per $1,000 of taxable property value.

For a home with an assessed value of $150,000, a property owner could expect a tax impact of $174.59 per year with a rate of $2.70. Based on the average assessed value of one acre of agricultural land, the annual impact would be $3.87 in Clinton County and $4.30 in Scott County.

To pass, bond referendums require at least 60% voter approval.

For more information about the district’s facility needs and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit https://www.calwheatbond2024.org. Community information meetings will also be scheduled and announced at a later date.