To the editor:

A crop of yard signs is mushrooming, reminding us of the election coming up in November. On the ballot will be an important GO bond extension for Iowa Central Community College.

Dr. Jesse Ulrich, president of Iowa Central, has provided a clear, bold plan for the funds. He has done this quite simply to be transparent and for us, the voters, to be able hold Iowa Central accountable to it.

Here are the facts of that plan:

• Property taxes will not increase. This is a tax levy renewal. The levy rate will not increase. The cost to the average household is approximately $25 a year.

• Workforce training programs will be expanded. Programs in HVAC, plumbing, welding and more.

• Health care workforce development programs will be expanded. Nursing and dental hygiene training will increase to meet regional demand.

• A new center for ag science will be constructed. It will be a center for training in agribusiness, animal science, precision agriculture and veterinary science.

• Needed building repairs and required maintenance will be performed, reducing costs long term and resulting in taxpayer savings.

The strategic plan for the GO bond renewal has been clearly laid out. Now it needs to be passed. It represents a critical investment in the future of Iowa Central, our students and our region. Your voice will count here. I encourage you to vote yes in November.

Deb Zemke

President, Iowa Central Foundation