The Akron-Westfield Board of Education Revenue Purpose Statement (RPS) vote passed on September 8, 2020. The RPS outlines how the district utilizes the Secure an Advanced Vision of Education (SAVE) funds. More commonly referred to as the state penny sales tax or local option sales tax, SAVE funds are utilized by districts to specifically support school infrastructure and technology needs. The Akron-Westfield CSD will continue to be able to spend SAVE funds as Iowa law allows for the duration of the penny sales tax.
· What is a Revenue Purpose Statement (RPS)?
It describes how school districts can spend sales tax funds (SAVE Funds).
Click here to view the Revenue Purpose Statement.
· Will this raise taxes?
No, the RPS will have no impact on taxes. The RPS has been in place for many years, this is not a new tax. The funds are generated from Sales Tax Revenue.
· How long will the RPS be approved for?
Akron-Westfield’s Revenue Purpose Statement will expire in 2051 as extended by Iowa Law.
· What have SAVE Funds been used for in the district?
The SAVE revenue has funded many key infrastructure and technology projects in the district, including:
o Renovations to the Elementary School.
o Technology infrastructure improvements, as well as student and staff technology devices.
o Transportation purchases and leases.
o New boilers and hot water heaters in both the elementary and high school.
o Roof repairs to school facilities.
o Safety and Security Measures.
· What does the new Revenue Purpose Statement say?
The RPS specifies the use of funds Akron-Westfield will receive from the State of Iowa Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE) Fund, and is intended to be used in the following manner:
o To provide funds for technology infrastructure
o To provide funds for school safety and security infrastructure
o To provide funds to build, remodel, reconstruct, repair, improve, or demolish school buildings
o To provide funds to purchase, lease, or lease-purchase buildings, equipment, or technology and to repair transportation equipment
o To provide funds for emergency demolition, cleanup, and repairs due to natural disasters
o To provide funds to establish and maintain public recreational areas and playgrounds
o To provide funds for the payment of principal and interest or retirement of general obligation bonds issued for school infrastructure purposes and tax revenue bonds
o To provide funds for property tax relief
o To provide funds for other authorized purposes permitted by law
· How Can I Learn More?
If you have questions about the Revenue Purpose Statement please contact the Akron-Westfield CSD Administration Office at 712-568-2020.