Letter: Stand up and vote yes for IC bond

On Aug. 21, I cast my yes vote to support the Iowa City Community School District by passing the general obligation bond.

I have worked at nearly every Iowa City Farmers Market this season on behalf of One Community. One Bond. People have asked great questions, leading to insightful conversations. The prevailing question, though, has been: 'Why would anyone vote no?” Bluntly, there isn't a good reason.

The Facilities Master Plan is the right plan at the right time. Is it perfect? No. But, every project in the plan has been delivered on time and on budget. The bond allows us to finish the remaining projects across the district.

Passing the bond is our opportunity to support our schools. Recently, the state and federal government have not prioritized public education. That is unacceptable. The fact is, students are succeeding in classrooms, auditoriums, and playing fields despite substandard facilities that don't match our community's commitment to education. Imagine the potential that can be achieved when students and teachers don't have to divert time to address leaking windows, falling ceiling tiles, or overheated classrooms.

This isn't about my kids that will attend New Hoover Elementary. Or about my wife, who teaches at Grant Wood Elementary. It's about us, as one community, standing up for what is right. We have a unique opportunity to come together in support of something that will make a lasting impact for all students.

Join me by voting yes to support our future, our community, and our students.

Tim Carty

Director of member services

Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce

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