(Atlantic, Iowa) – Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors visited Washington Elementary School on Thursday October 23rd, 2025, to meet with Dr. Beth Johnson, Superintendent of the Atlantic Community School District, to learn more about the three proposed ballot measures that will appear on the November 4th, 2025, election ballot. Dr. Johnson explained that the proposals aim to address critical facility needs, enhance safety, and provide modern, efficient learning environments across the district. Together, the measures would fund improvements and expansions that support students, staff, and families well into the future.

The three ballot measures include:

• Public Measure DH: A $22.5 million general obligation bond for improvement and expansion projects at Washington Elementary, Schuler Elementary, Atlantic Middle School, and Atlantic High School.
• Public Measure DI: An $18.5 million sales tax revenue bond to construct a new multipurpose activity center at Atlantic High School.
• Public Measure DG: A Revenue Purpose Statement (RPS) to continue using statewide sales tax (SAVE) funds for projects like building upgrades, technology, and infrastructure.
  

  Pictured Left to Right: Dr. Beth Johnson, Jeff Christensen, Jen McEntaffer, Jim Kickland, Dan Haynes, Alisha Wagner, Chris Parks, Julie Waters, Steve Andersen, Krysta Hanson, Elain Otte, Dolly Bergmann, Bill Saluk, Anne Quist, Megan Sramek, Jenny Jessen, Graydon Schmidt, Kathie Hockenberry, Summer Schwab, Lana Westphalen, Connie Wailes, Lily Witmore, Brehana Preis, Colt Doherty

The proposals are the result of a year-long facility planning process. In July 2024, the Iowa Construction Advocate Team (ICAT) from Estes Construction assessed all district facilities and identified areas needing updates to meet current codes, comfort, and accessibility standards. Later that year, SVPA Architects and Estes Construction worked with district leadership and the School Board to develop a 10-year maintenance plan and prioritize major projects. Financial advisors helped craft a strategy using both General Obligation Bonds and Sales Tax Revenue Bonds, generating about $40 million to address these needs.

Dr. Johnson emphasized that community input shaped the proposals through surveys, facility studies, and public meetings. “Our schools are the heart of our community,” said Dr. Johnson. “These measures are about providing safe, high-quality spaces where students can thrive, teachers can teach effectively, and families can feel confident about the future of education in Atlantic.” Following the discussion, the Ambassadors toured Washington Elementary, viewing classrooms, shared spaces, and areas slated for renovation. The visit provided a first-hand look at how the proposed projects would strengthen learning environments for students.

Community members are encouraged to learn more and attend upcoming informational sessions before the November vote. For full details about the ballot measures, project plans, and voting information, visit https://www.atlantic-bond.com/.