Voters in the Decorah Community School District approved both measures on the ballot during the September 10 special election.

According to preliminary election results provided by the Winneshiek County Auditor’s Office, each public measure for DCSD received approval of at least 70 percent.

Public Measure D, which asked voters to renew the district’s Revenue Purpose Statement (RPS) through 2051, received 1,829 votes in favor (75.48%) compared to 594 (24.52%) opposed. This measure required 50% approval to pass. A Revenue Purpose Statement specifies how school districts can spend revenue provided by the state’s Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE) fund.

Public Measure E sought permission from voters to increase the district’s debt service levy limit from $2.70 to $4.05 per $1,000 of taxable property value. Support for the measure totaled 1,678 votes (70.56%), while there were 700 votes against (29.44%). Approval of at least 60% was needed to pass.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support that was shown by our residents on election day,” said Dr. Tim Cronin, Superintendent. “We have had many great conversations about the future of our schools in recent months, and it is clear that our community cares deeply about education and the students our district serves.”

The measures approved on September 10 are the initial steps in the district’s plan to construct a new school for students in PK-2 that would replace John Cline Elementary and West Side Early Childhood Center.

DCSD voters will next consider a $38 million bond referendum on Tuesday, November 5. More information about this project can be found at www.decorahcsdfuture.org.