The Dubuque Community School District is seeking approval from the community for a $70 million bond referendum. The money would fund a plan to consolidate the middle schools within the district from three to two. Voters will decide on the proposed bond for the school consolidation plan in the Nov. 4 elections.
The bond will partially fund a project to consolidate the district’s middle schools from three down to two. Roosevelt Middle School will remain in operation, while Washington Middle School and Jefferson Middle School will shut down.
The two more than 100-year-old buildings would be replaced by one new middle school building constructed on the site of Washington Middle School. The changes would provide a more comfortable learning environment for students, as Washington Middle School currently lacks air conditioning. Additionally, under the proposed changes, the district would be able to create a feeder system, from middle to high school, in the district.
If approved, the proposed plan would be funded by the $70 million bond combined with nearly $52 million in sales tax funds. The proposed levy is $1.00 per $1,000 of taxable property value. If successful, the new organization would save the Dubuque Community School District up to $2.5 million annually in operation costs. If the bond fails, the district could face more future closures. The bond referendum needs the approval of at least 60% of voters in the election to pass.
The school district will host two community information sessions regarding the bond referendum. At each meeting, an overview of the project will be presented alongside data, feedback, and a financial impact of the bond. The first session will be held on Oct. 2 at Jefferson Middle School. Washington Middle School will host the second meeting on Oct. 21.
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