To all Gladbrook-Reinbeck friends, supporters, parents, grandparents and students: By now I’m sure you should be aware there will be a school bond issue (referendum) vote on November 4. The district has shared information about the facility improvements in many ways.

I’m sharing the link to the 2025 Referendum website so you can review the details of the improvements here: https://sites.google.com/gr-rebels.net/ref25/overview.

Please be informed voters. You can also access this information on the Gladbrook-Reinbeck website under “2025 Referendum.” All of the district’s communications, a tax calculator-to calculate your own tax impact, answers to the questions that have been asked are just some of the things available to you.

My background is one of a former business office employee and business manager of the school district for over 30 years – from 1989 through 2020. Currently, the school district is financially sound, enrollments of students attending the district have been increasing. The future is bright. By investing in critical facility needs, the future is even brighter.

The school district(s) has not issued any general obligation bonds for facility needs since the 1960s. With no bond debt, coupled with some of the lowest property tax rates in the state, the district’s property owners have benefited with significant property tax savings over the last several decades.

No one wants to pay any more taxes than necessary. But all facilities eventually need updates/improvements. None of the buildings were/are ADA compliant (accessible to all). HVAC (heating and cooling) system updates are needed to make learning environments that promote success for all students. Unfortunately, in recent years, safe and secure entrances have become necessary for student and staff safety. Electrical systems must meet the demands of increased technology use in our schools. These, among others, are not lofty ideas and pipe dreams, they all become necessary so that the future leaders of our communities continue to be successful.

It’s time to step up just like past generations did for us. PLEASE VOTE YES for the Gladbrook-Reinbeck ballot question on the November 4 election. EVERY VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT! Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If something will keep you from being able to vote at your polling place on November 4, early voting at your county auditor’s office is available now through November 3. PLEASE MAKE IT A PRIORITY.

Deb Oleson

Reinbeck, Iowa