PPEL Projects

In March 2025, Gladbrook-Reinbeck voters approved a nine-year increase in the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL), raising it from $0.67 to the maximum $1.34 per $1,000 of assessed valuation. The measure passed with 61.1% approval. This support provides important resources for critical facility and infrastructure needs. However, the PPEL is limited in what it can fund. It cannot support the scale of construction needed for academic replacements at the Junior High / High School, which is why a bond referendum is now required to move forward with this plan.

In the short term, PPEL projects are about addressing immediate, overdue needs and creating readiness for the future, whether or not a bond passes.

PPEL Funds are currently being used for:

Classroom furniture replacement

• G-R’s replacement of older, worn out furniture with updated classroom furniture can help students stay engaged longer and better focus on learning. Today’s instruction often blends technology, collaboration, and hands-on activities. Flexible modern seating can be adopted for collaborative group work, independent study, or traditional whole class instruction.

Concrete repair

• The district is committed to making sure that sidewalks and entrances at both of its campus buildings are safe and accessible for students, staff, and visitors.

Dehumidification in the High School Media Center

• The secondary building needs a large, climate-controlled space that can be used year-round for staff, classes, and meetings. The district does not currently have another secondary space that works during hot and humid months. Adding dehumidification now gives the district that option immediately, instead of waiting years for a future bond project. PPEL Funds are being considered for:

Electrical upgrades to the MS/HS

• The district will continue using portions of the 1921 building for years to come regardless of the bond outcome. A site electrical upgrade is necessary with or without a new addition, and it will be a prerequisite for any future project. By addressing it now with PPEL, the district will reduce what would need to be financed through a bond, ultimately saving taxpayer dollars.

HVAC upgrades to the MS/HS

• 1921 steam system is outdated and inefficient. The district’s intent is to identify the most cost-effective path to upgrade the HVAC system. If the bond passes, these steps will position us well for transition. If the bond does not pass, the district will still need to ensure our facilities remain safe, functional, and sustainable, and HVAC is one of the most pressing overdue needs.