SPIRIT LAKE, IA (Northwestiowanow) – The Spirit Lake School Board has unanimously approved placing a proposed $69.9 million bond referendum on the November 3 ballot.

The board held a special meeting Monday to accept a citizen petition and formally call for the election. Only 150 signatures were needed to trigger a vote, but supporters collected 371 signatures, with 227 verified.

Under the proposal, portions of Spirit Lake High School dating back to 1958 and sections of the elementary school built in 1982 would be replaced.

The board has previously said replacing portions of the buildings would be preferable to spending an estimated $15 million on major repairs to the aging facilities.

Superintendent Dr. David Smith says the strong response to the petition drive is a good sign.

Smith says the focus now is to educate the public on why the repairs are needed.

 

The issue needs 60 percent approval.