Invest in CR schools

We're all looking for a safe, sound investment that limits our cost today, yet brings a solid return in the future.

That's exactly why a group of parents have formed a committee to support the upcoming Physical Plant and Equipment Levy ballot issue for Cedar Rapids Schools. When you vote yes on Sep. 9, you are making a long-term investment in our local neighborhood schools and the children in our community.

The average school in the Cedar Rapids School District is about 60 years old. That's not a big deal - our schools are built to last 100 or more years. But to continue through their full potential, we as a community must be willing to fund their upkeep.

That's what PPEL is all about. The funds raised through this levy aren't used for extravagant upgrades. This is how the Cedar Rapids school district funds building repair, preventive maintenance and heating and cooling projects. The levy also pays for emergency projects - like the deductible on storm damage at a number of schools this summer - and replacement of buses in the district, making sure that they are safe for our children to ride.

Each school benefits from the funds and their use is extremely transparent. We have provided links at RISECR.org that will take you to a school-by-school list of projects proposed by the district if the PPEL is approved. The projects listed are simply what's needed to keep our city's school buildings up-to code, safe and accessible for all for students.

After 40 years of our support, the district is asking for its first increase in the levy. The increase would have a minor impact on your total tax bill, but this upfront investment would save taxpayers in the long term.

The last new school in the district was built 12 years ago, and the newest schools after that are 40 years old. Older buildings mean more care and maintenance to keep them operating. While some in the past have voiced concern with an increase in PPEL, the alternative is much more expensive.

Bonding for new schools would cost taxpayers much, much more. And many districts, including some in our area, have gone away from neighborhood schools to save money when building new schools. To me, neighborhood schools are a huge draw and a significant benefit when someone moves into our community.

Cedar Rapids is blessed with great teachers and wonderful schools located in each of the neighborhoods they serve. On Sep. 9, please visit one of the four voting sites located at each of our Cedar Rapids high schools.

A low-cost investment today will pay big dividends for our future - and the future of our children. Please vote 'Yes” to extend the PPEL.

' RISE CR committee chair Scott Drzycimski is the father of two Coolidge Elementary students. Comments: scott@iowadski.com.