On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, our community will go to the polls to consider renewing the Knoxville Community School District’s voted Physical Plant & Equipment Levy (PPEL). This continues the current levy and does not increase taxes.

What is a Physical Plant & Equipment Levy (PPEL)?

• The PPEL is a voter-approved levy that generates funds for infrastructure and equipment repairs, purchases and improvements. Funds can only be used for these purposes.

• A voted PPEL generates funds our school district can only spend for infrastructure and equipment repairs, purchases and improvements. This levy must be renewed every 10 years by voters and is not a new tax. The passage of the PPEL would not raise your property taxes.

• Knoxville has had a voter-approved levy in place for decades. Knoxville voters last renewed our PPEL in 2015 for a 10-year period (FY2015 - FY2025). The vote requires 50% plus 1 to be approved.

Why is the PPEL important?

• If the PPEL is renewed by voters on March 4, 2025, the district will continue to use the funds to cover costs related to building and grounds maintenance, technology advancements, transportation and other allowable expenses.

• If the PPEL is not renewed, the district would need to use general funds and SAVE money to support building upkeep, transportation and technology, delaying potential projects planned from SAVE funding.

How are PPEL funds used?

The Knoxville Community School District received $925,700 in fiscal year 2025 from its voter-approved PPEL. The district relies on these funds to cover many crucial needs. The existing PPEL approved by voters will sunset on June 30, 2025, without renewal. The district has used these funds for the following purposes:

• West Elementary playground (to add handicap accessibility)

• School security upgrades, including doors and locking systems

• Technology infrastructure upgrades

• Roof repairs and replacements

• School restroom updates

• Parking lot improvements

• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning system maintenance

• Replacement of buses

As we continue to focus on preparing students for the career and college opportunities of the future, our district must ensure they have access to critical resources and services.

When to Vote

Election Day is Tuesday, March 4, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Contact the Marion County Auditor’s Office for additional information.

Where to Vote 

Check the Iowa Secretary of State’s website for your polling location.

Knoxville PPEL Q&A

Get quick answers to your questions—check out our Q&A for essential information.

Letter From Superintendent Pearson

Check out this important message from our superintendent.