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Like most schools across Iowa, the South O’Brien Community School District uses funds from the statewide one-cent sales tax to address a wide variety of infrastructure and technology needs across our schools. This is made possible through a voter-approved Revenue Purpose Statement (RPS).

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On Tuesday, November 7, South O’Brien residents will vote on extending the district’s RPS through 2050. This extension would take immediate effect upon voter approval. There would be no property tax impact if the RPS is approved.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a Revenue Purpose Statement (RPS)?

A Revenue Purpose Statement (RPS) is a ballot measure that determines how a school district may use funds from the one-cent statewide sales tax, known as Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE).

 

What is SAVE? 

Commonly known as the one-cent sales tax for education, the SAVE fund was created in 2008 to provide Iowa schools with a revenue source to support infrastructure and technology. This prepares graduates for 21st-century careers and supports repairs and improvements to facilities. 

 

How would an approved statement affect property taxes?

Approving the statement would have no impact on local property taxes, nor would it affect the sales tax. It would simply specify where and how the South O’Brien School Board may use SAVE funds.

 

How will this money be used?

This is an important measure for our schools, as it allows the district to spend state SAVE funds on projects that have been and will continue to be critical for our school infrastructure. The funds may be used for the following:

  • Improving school safety and security

  • Building, remodeling, repairing, expanding, improving, and furnishing buildings

  • Acquiring buildings, equipment, technology, and repair transportation equipment for student use

  • Establishing and maintaining public playgrounds and providing supervision and instruction for recreational activities

  • Assisting with payment of principal and interest of retirement of general obligation bonds issued for school infrastructure purposes, energy improvement loans, loan agreements, and tax revenue bonds 

  • Assisting with property tax relief 

  • Assisting with other authorized expenditures and purposes 

 

When is election day?

The election date is Tuesday, November 7, 2023.

 

Can I cast an absentee ballot in this election?

Yes! The deadline to request an absentee ballot is 5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 23, 2023. All absentee ballots must be submitted by the time polls close on election day to be counted. For voting information, visit https://obriencounty.iowa.gov/departments/auditor/. 

 

Do I need an ID to vote in person?

Yes. Voters are required to provide an ID number on an absentee ballot request form. Voters must present an ID when voting early in-person or on election day. Find more information at https://obriencounty.iowa.gov/departments/auditor/.

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