March 2 special election: Chamber urges support for workforce, education initiatives in Iowa

Iowa Quad Cities voters will be asked Tuesday, March 2, to approve two separate ballot initiatives supporting education and career readiness. There will be no increase in taxes upon approval of the referendums, and because of this, the Quad Cities Chamber asks that you please vote "Yes" on these ballot measures:

1. A $40 million bond referendum for Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) to build and expand facilities that support the improvement of Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming
   • If approved, the new bonds would replace a series of bonds from 2007 that will be paid off this year, resulting in no new property taxes.
   • Funding for the program will be used for new and expanded CTE facilities at the college's main campuses in Scott, Clinton and Muscatine counties. It will also be used for a new facility in DeWitt, expansion of programming at the college's Maquoketa training facility and a new agriculture education facility in Scott County in partnership with the North Scott Community School District. Adults would also have access to programs at these facilities.
      
2.  Revenue Purpose Statements in Bettendorf, Pleasant Valley and North Scott community school districts 
   • These statements outline how a school district will use the money they receive from the one-cent sales tax fund known as Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE). This vote is not a property or sales tax increase; it only specifies how each district intends to use SAVE funds through 2051.
   • If approved, one-cent sales tax funds would be used for: 
     • Property tax relief
     • Technology infrastructure
     • School safety and security
     • Build and furnish a new school building or buildings
     • Remodel, reconstruct, repair, expand and improve school buildings
     • Establish and maintain public recreation places and playgrounds
     • Principal and interest on, or retirement of, bonds issued for school infrastructure purposes  

Both of these initiatives address the Quad Cities' need for workforce development facilities and programs. According to EICC, 65% of jobs in the current economy require education and training, yet just 45% of area working-age adults have postsecondary credentials and between 20% and 40% of recent high school graduates do not pursue any additional education or training.

To keep up with the demand for skilled workers, the Quad Cities must invest in programs and facilities that increase accessibility and diversify learning opportunities and career pathways for students and adults. By supporting the development of a growing workforce, the referendums on March 2 position the Quad Cities for long-term economic success. To voice your support for these proposals.

Double-check your voting location via the Scott County Auditor's Office.