As we’ve reported, using some of the statewide penny sales tax money, that was originally designed to help school districts improve infrastructure, to better water quality is an option Governor Terry Branstad is considering this session.

Superintendent Lynn Ubben says it’s something she is concerned about losing those funds because they have made it possible for the Perry School District to complete several projects without having to increase taxes.  She encourages residents to talk to their local lawmakers about the issue.

“It’s near and dear to us as superintendents and as educators, so I probably need to do a better job, and our (school) board and some of our staff members, at getting our community members more involved.  It really does effect them, obviously.  I live in Perry, we pay taxes, it effects all of us.  When you’re able to do the things you need to do for kids without increasing taxes, it’s huge.  So it does effect all of us.”

District 19 State Representative Ralph Watts – ralph.watts@legis.iowa.gov  515-993-4850

District 20 State Representative Clel Baudler – clel.baudler@legis.iowa.gov 641-743-6327

District 10 State Senator Jake Chapman – jake.chapman@legis.iowa.gov  515-659-3942