PHYSICAL PLANT AND EQUIPMENT LEVY RENEWAL
VOTE ON September 8, 2026
On September 8, Shenandoah voters will consider renewing the district's Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL). This is not a new tax and would allow the district to continue funding facility maintenance, transportation, security, and technology needs.
The
election for the renewal of the Shenandoah CSD voter approved
Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) will be held on September 8,
2026 from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The
following is a list of frequently asked questions about the levy.
What is the Physical Plant & Equipment
Levy (PPEL)?
The Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) is a voter-approved levy that serves as one of the primary revenue sources for funding school infrastructure and equipment repairs, purchases, and improvements.
How does the passage of the PPEL affect me?
PPEL is NOT A NEW TAX for the Shenandoah Community School District, the renewal of this levy does not increase your property taxes. It authorizes the district to continue to use the voter-approved rate that has been in effect for many years so that we may continue to use the funding in our maintenance and upgrades plan.
Can the PPEL fund be used to offset shortages in the district’s general fund or used to pay staff salaries?
No, the PPEL revenues cannot be used for salaries, textbooks, or new educational programs. The requirements for the use of the PPEL funds are very specific in nature and are limited by what is outlined in Iowa Code.
What are some examples of how the PPEL fund has been used?
PPEL funds have been used for technology hardware and
infrastructure; purchasing school transportation vehicles including
buses and vans; maintaining and improving school grounds; building
maintenance such as carpet,
windows, concrete, and shop equipment.
What are some examples of how the PPEL fund will be used in the future?
PPEL funds will be used for continued
HVAC upgrades at the K-8 and High School buildings, parking lot and sidewalk
repairs, floor replacements in the High School and K-8 building,
bleacher replacement in the
High School gym, internal door lock upgrades in all buildings, bus and district
vehicle replacements, computer replacements, and digital classroom displays.
What is the difference between the Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) and the State One Cent Sales and Service Tax Fund?
For Shenandoah Community
School District, PPEL funds are used predominately for maintenance, vehicle, and technology purchases; and the State
One Cent Sales
Tax is used for the district’s revenue bond payments.
State law requires
a vote to renew this levy every 10 years.
PPEL was established in Iowa, in the early 1990s. Shenandoah first voted in-favor in 1998 and has since renewed twice with the last being in 2017 with 81% approval.
