Interstate 35 Community School District -

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Interstate 35 Community School District Board Approves FY27 Tax Levy Reduction to Protect Taxpayers

The Interstate 35 Community School District Board of Directors has finalized the Fiscal Year 2027 property tax levy at 16.19091, taking deliberate action to keep district property tax revenues essentially flat and prevent an automatic tax increase for local taxpayers.

Recent increases in assessed property values would have resulted in higher taxes if the levy rate had remained unchanged. Rather than allowing that increase to occur, the Board voted to lower the levy, ensuring taxpayers are not asked to contribute more simply due to valuation growth.

“Fiscal responsibility means managing the district’s budget carefully while also being mindful of the impact on our taxpayers,” stated the Board. “This decision reflects our commitment to balancing strong educational programs with respect for the community we serve.” -- Interstate 35 Board of Directors

During the FY27 budget process, several levy scenarios were reviewed and published. Some of those options would have resulted in tax increases ranging from approximately $270,000 to $459,000. The levy adopted by the Board instead results in only a $2 total revenue increase, effectively holding revenues flat compared to the prior year.

This outcome was achieved through disciplined budgeting, thoughtful discussion, and a focus on long term financial sustainability. The Board carefully evaluated district needs while prioritizing taxpayer protection and responsible use of public funds.

Commitment to the Community
The Interstate 35 Board of Directors remains committed to:

Responsible fiscal management
Transparency in financial decision‑making
Protecting taxpayers from unnecessary increases
Supporting quality educational opportunities for students
The Board appreciates the continued trust and support of the Interstate 35 community and is proud to take steps that demonstrate prudent stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

A special meeting of the I-35 School Board of Directors is scheduled for Wednesday, April 8 at 5:00 pm in the District Office Conference room. Following the open meeting, they will go into an exempt session under Iowa Code 21.9 - "To discuss strategy in matters relating to employment conditions of employees not covered by the collective bargaining law." The agenda is available at https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/SB_Meetings/ViewMeeting.aspx?S=36031611&MID=29867&Tab=Agenda&enIID=18i3kzOslshD6MAHA31ga7acQ%3D%3D

🍩 A family-favorite event, Donuts for Grownups, is BACK!

Join us April 23rd anytime between 7:30-8:10 for a sweet morning treat and some quality time with your student. This year's event is open to families with 3-Year-Old Preschool - 3rd Grade students.

In addition to donuts, we'll have fun photo stations and some activities like coloring pages.

Register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScBX0Pa2UM5Ou0yG1zeVGq0wrRjKI7deJylzDVTV3-rrKGfTw/viewform or by using the QR code below.

Details Summary:

- 📅 April 23, 2026

-⏰ 7:30–8:10 AM

-📍 Elementary Gym

- 👨‍👩‍👧 For students in 3-year-old preschool through 3rd grade

#TheRoadrunnerExperience

The agenda for certified initial proposal is scheduled for Thursday, March 26 at 5:00 pm in the District Office Conference Room. The agenda is available at the following link:
https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/SB_Meetings/ViewMeeting.aspx?S=36031611&MID=29562

There will be a Special Meeting of the I-35 School Board of Directors on Thursday, February 26 at 11:30 am held virtually well as in the Superintendent Conference Room.

Agenda Link: https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/SB_Meetings/ViewMeeting.aspx?S=36031611&MID=28367

Virtual meeting link: https://meet.google.com/tvf-xunv-whf?hs=122&authuser=0as