POLK COUNTY, Iowa — In the upcoming Nov. 7 election, voters in some counties will cast their vote on referendums for various infrastructure projects.
From airports to schools to jail facilities, voters in central Iowa will have the chance to decide how these projects should be funded.
Polk County voters will decide whether to pass or reject a referendum for a Des Moines International Airport terminal expansion.
If it passes, it would authorize Polk County to sell bonds up to $350 million. Bond proceeds would then be loaned to the airport authority to help fund the project.
The airport authority said that would save approximately $70 million in interest costs over the life of the loan.
The old terminal is not being torn down; this project is an expansion.
In Waukee, voters will see two measures regarding the Waukee Community School District.
The $180 million general obligation bond would fund critical renovations and other infrastructure projects, like building new schools and renovating existing buildings.
A physical plant and equipment levy is also on the ballot.
The current one is set to expire in 2026.
That levy supports ground improvement, equipment, remodels, and transportation equipment.
Approval of these measures will not impact residents' property tax rates.
In Webster County, voters will decide on a referendum for a new jail and sheriff's office.
Webster County leaders said a new facility is necessary.
The current jail has numerous safety issues and is often at inmate capacity.
For example, 40 inmates had to be outsourced to other detention facilities as of early September.
To fund this project, a $45.5 million 20-year general obligation fund is on the ballot.
This will have a tax impact on residents. Head to webstercountyvote.com to calculate potential tax impacts on you.