Public hears from both sides of IC bond vote issue at forum

The biggest bond issue of its kind was the topic of debate in Iowa City tonight.

The $191 million bond referendum would fund projects throughout the Iowa City School District.

Schools in the district will each have a variety of projects funded should it be approved. You can view them all at

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The forum hosted by the League of Women Voters consisted of a panel of four women. Two in favor and two opposed to the bond vote.

Supporters say the district has a lot of catching up to do to other districts when it comes to infrastructure, and that this bond issue is the only thing that meets the growing district.

"We are a growing school district with growing needs it is a big bond issue so was the bond issue in 1917 that built Lincoln and Mann and Longfellow," Sue Dvorsky said.

Those opposed argue the bond amount is too high and would contribute to frivolous spending in the district. They say the language on the bond is too vague and that neighborhoods would fight over money. They also cited concerns with the administration and school board.

One City High student at the meeting told me he's still on the fence about the issue.

"I'm certainly skeptical of the school district I mean I have heard quite a few negative things regarding special education which I've heard differing things of it I try to keep an open mind in these situations," Teagan Roeder said.

A main component for the school district is getting air conditioning for all of the schools to eliminate school closures on hot days.

Voters go to the polls September 12.