A special election for the Knoxville Community School District will be held today.

The special election will have two questions for voters: one for a continuation of a voter approved physical plant and equipment property (PPEL) tax levy and the other to fill a school board vacancy through 2027. 

PPEL provides the funds to maintain and improve school buildings, complete site and facility improvements, and purchase transportation vehicles and technology equipment. PPEL cannot be used for salaries, educational program materials, or curriculum. In 2015, voters approved the PPEL, and approved an increase in 2018. Initially, the district anticipated the term would expire in 2028, but in December 2024, the Iowa Department of Management clarified that it would end in 2025, despite the vote in 2018. To meet state requirements, the district scheduled the vote for March 4th, ensuring PPEL funding is included in the district budget they will submit by April 15th, as required. 

The levy is a continuation of a previous levy that was already in place for the district that needs to be renewed every ten years. Jyl DeJong is filling an interim seat on the school board after the resignation of Dave Smith, and is the only candidate on the ballot for the vacancy this election. DeJong tells KNIA/KRLS that she wants to keep giving back to the community by serving on the school board as she also has served on the city council. 

“I would love your support. I really try to work hard in this community, be it through volunteering, city council, now to school board to build trust and earn the respect of the community so I would really appreciate your vote in this new adventure.”

To find your polling location for today you can follow this link. Polls are open 7:00 am – 8:00 pm.