South Winneshiek PPEL Fails Amid Higher-Than-Expected Turnout

We hike Pulpit Rock for the views — and for the stories waiting at the top. Support Decorah News today. WINNESHIEK COUNTY — Voters in the South Winneshiek Community School District on Tuesday decided on 10-year Physical Plant and Equipment Levies to continue dedicated funding for infrastructure and equipment. In the South Winneshiek district, voters rejected Public Measure S 166 to 187, or 47.03% to 52.97%., with 353 ballots cast of 2,889 registered voters, representing a turnout of approximately 12.2%. In South Winneshiek, the rejected PPEL measure would have authorized a levy of up to $1.34 per $1,000 of assessed taxable property annually for 10 years, beginning with collection for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2028. The vote follows voter approval in November 2025 of a $13 million general obligation bond to renovate and expand South Winneshiek High School. That project addresses portions of the building dating back to 1930 that no longer meet current educational, safety, or accessibility standards. Plans include renovation and expansion to approximately 81,610 square feet, creating dedicated academic zones for STEAM and language and social studies programs, a new library and learning center, a competition gym with walking track, expanded commons and cafeteria space. The total project cost is estimated at $23.5 million. Funding sources include the $13 million bond, $2 million in district cash reserves, and $10.5 million from the state's Secure an Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE) one-cent sales tax and PPEL revenue. Revenue from a voter-approved PPEL may be used for purposes allowed under Iowa law, including purchasing and improving grounds; constructing, repairing, remodeling or expanding school buildings; purchasing buildings, technology and equipment; acquiring library materials; energy conservation projects; transportation equipment for students; lease-purchase agreements; and other authorized infrastructure and equipment needs. Election officials shared that turnout was higher than expected for both the South Winn. PPEL election and the Decorah School District PPEL Election. The Auditor's staff had to deliver additional ballots to both polling locations during the day, and nine voters at the Decorah polling site used the voter assistance terminal, which prints out a ballot for the voter. Unofficial results were reported by the Winneshiek County Auditor's Office. The official results will be certified at the canvass by the Board of Supervisors next Tuesday Your weekly dose of local life! Subscribe to the free newsletter and enjoy news, analysis, and stories you'll actually look forward to reading.