DMPS considers how much to ask for in bond
The DMPS board is considering how much money to ask from voters for an upcoming bond referendum — possibly scaling back from a $500 million request.
Why it matters: The district's long-term plan to overhaul outdated schools and expand academic programs hinges on voter support for a multimillion-dollar bond, but some board members want to avoid inflicting sticker shock at the polls and leaving empty-handed.
Catch up quick: DMPS is working toward its 10-year Reimagining Education plan, which would help modernize its schools, offer new Montessori programs, and add preschool programming, specialty schools and grade reconfigurations.
Des Moines has 72 school buildings, many averaging 70–80 years old.
State of play: The projected cost of the plan is $683 million, including renovations and inflation. Initial board discussions have called for a $500 million bond to help fund it.
At that dollar amount, owners of a Des Moines home assessed at $200k would pay an additional $356 annually for 20 years, according to projections shared with the school board last week.
What they're saying: Several DMPS board members expressed concern the plan could falter at the ballot box without changes.
Board member Jenna Knox noted the difficulties Cedar Rapids has faced trying to get a bond referendum passed. In 2023, a $220 million request failed. This year the district is asking for $117 million.
"This is a lot of money. I'm not going to just sugarcoat it," Knox said during the meeting. "We should be smart about it, versus getting absolutely nothing."
Zoom in: To pass, the referendum requires 60% voter approval in the Nov. 4 election.
School board chair Jackie Norris suggested DMPS officials research more on a $250-$300 million bond and how that would impact the project.
Current projections show that a $300 million bond would cost an additional $213.88 annually for a home assessed at $200k.
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