2026 Bond Referendum
A BETTER PLAN
FOR EMMETSBURG
Emmetsburg's youngest learners are still spending their days in classroom wings built in 1950 and 1959 — spaces designed for a different era of education, long before today's safety standards, technology needs, and instructional approaches existed at West Elementary.
Emmetsburg Community School District has listened to community feedback and developed a plan that better meets the needs of students, families and taxpayers.
By selecting a different site location, reducing the tax levy from the previous proposal, and leveraging SAVE sales tax funding to lower the overall bond amount, this plan represents a thoughtful investment in student safety, modern learning environments, childcare access, and the long-term future of our community.
The different site location identified is at the Kassel family property north of College Drive, across from Iowa Lakes Community College.
The District's current bond has been paid off early, leaving no outstanding bond debt. The proposed project includes a property tax rate of $2.70 per $1,000 of taxable property value for a $25 million General Obligation (G.O.) Bond.
This proposal reflects years of planning, community feedback, and thoughtful refinement to better meet the needs of Emmetsburg. With a lower tax levy, a preferred site, and a focus on long-term value, it represents a responsible investment in a safer, more efficient school while providing a solution that will serve our students, families and the community for generations to come.
"I had not been inside West Elementary and I have been here in Emmetsburg about 8 years. I see the pick-up and drop-off issues, but I had not been inside.
The key for me was the tour of the building. (West) appears to be in good shape on the outside, but the infrastructure is pretty bad and having the tour and the pointing out of the issues by a very experienced and knowledgeable Mr. Carpenter was very eye-opening.
The information shared was also good and informed, and also the work you have done to bring the cost down for taxpayers was also important.” — Marla Berg
JOIN US!
We will be hosting town hall meetings in September and October to provide ECSD residents with opportunities to ask questions and learn more about the district's facility needs and the November bond referendum.
Stay tuned for upcoming dates.
“A strong, well-supported school system is key to attracting and retaining top talent in healthcare. It demonstrates that we value our families, our children, and the long-term well-being of our community. Investing in our schools isn’t just an investment in education—it’s an investment in the future of healthcare, economic growth, and in the strength of our entire community.”
— Jonathan Moe, Palo Alto County Hospital CEO
Please use this form to submit questions or
feedback about the bond referendum.