Ankeny school district voters asked to renew tax levy for building projects, equipment

Voters in the Ankeny Community School District will be asked whether to renew a property tax levy that funds equipment costs and building improvement projects.

The school board approved adding a question on the Nov. 7 school board election ballot about whether to renew the existing physical plant and equipment levy (PPEL) for 10 more years. The levy, which is $1.34 per $1,000 in taxable valuation, can be used for expenses like construction, renovations, buying property, equipment and energy conservation.

The district has used the funds for various projects since the last renewal, according to a news release, such as upgrading older buildings, safety enhancements, playground repairs, paint projects to create welcoming spaces in schools, classroom technology like projectors, radon mitigation and special education needs.

"The district’s ability to be proactive with building and site improvements and equipment replacement projectsheavily depends on using PPEL funds," Jennifer Jamison, district chief financial officer, said in a statement. "Ourdistrict has benefitted from a voter-approved PPEL for many years, and a yes vote would maintain this essentialsource of funding. It will not result in an increase to the current PPEL levy rate."

Chris Higgins covers the eastern suburbs for the Register. Reach him at chiggins@registermedia.com or 515-423-5146 and follow him on Twitter @chris_higgins.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: PPEL property tax back on the ballot in Ankeny school district