Madrid Community School District Board Accepts Petition Signatures, Securing Bond Referendum Spot on November Ballot
The Madrid Community School District Board of Education has accepted petition signatures for the proposed $4.3 million General Obligation Bond Referendum, exceeding the number required by Iowa law. With this milestone reached, the bond referendum question will officially appear on the November 3, 2026 ballot.
The total project investment is $11.9 million, with 63% of the proposed project funded through SAVE (Secure an Advanced Vision for Education) funds. The District has structured the plan to extend the existing debt service levy rather than increase the current property tax rate.
The proposed Building Skills. Supporting Students. Strengthening Madrid. plan focuses on preparing students for future careers, improving student safety, replacing aging building systems, and responsibly maintaining the District's existing facilities.
"Seeing our community come together and exceed the signature requirement speaks volumes about how much people care about the future of our children, our campus, and our community," said Board of Education President Lauren Clark. "Our Board is grateful for this continued support and look forward to seeing everyone at the polls to vote."
When approved by voters, the proposed project would:
Expand Career and Technical Education opportunities with dedicated spaces for agriculture, skilled trades, culinary arts, and health sciences, allowing students to earn industry certifications before graduation.
Renovate the existing shop area into a more functional band and vocal space, improving the daily learning environment for music and performing arts, while allowing the existing music room to become a renovated weight room.
Improve student safety, wellness, and activities through updated physical education, fitness, and athletic spaces.
Add modern outdoor activity amenities with updated, accessible restroom facilities to better serve students, families, and community members attending school events.
Replace aging heating, ventilation, and cooling systems throughout key areas of the Junior/Senior High School.
Preserve and modernize the existing building to better serve students and the community for decades to come.
"I want to thank every community member who signed the petition and helped us reach this milestone," said Superintendent Jason Gabel. "This is a direct reflection of the trust our community has placed in this process, and it gives every eligible voter the opportunity to have their say on November 3. We look forward to continuing the conversation and making sure everyone in our community has the facts for voting."
Over the coming months, Madrid Community School District will continue sharing project information, financial details, and opportunities for community engagement leading up to the November 3 election.
The District encourages residents to learn more about the proposed project and stay informed throughout the process by visiting www.madrid.k12.ia.us. The website will be updated regularly with project information, frequently asked questions, important dates, and other resources as they become available. Community members are also encouraged to attend informational meetings and connect with members of the Board of Education and Superintendent Jason Gabel to ask questions and learn more about the proposed project.