March 28, 2024

JEDCO Director: Vote “Yes” on DMACC levy extension questions

To the editor:

Newton and Jasper County voters have an opportunity to vote for economic development, business growth and jobs next Tuesday, Sept. 10.

On the ballot will be two levies that are crucial to Des Moines Area Community College’s (DMACC) Newton Campus.

The first is the 20¼-cent levy that DMACC uses to renovate existing campuses and facilities. The second, six-cent levy is used by the College to purchase new equipment, computers and even library books.

These are a continuation, not new or an increase in taxes. For most homeowners, both levies together represent less than the cost of a gallon of gas each month. It’s a small price to pay for what we get in return. DMACC is a path to a new and better life for students.

From nursing and business to electrical construction trades and welding, DMACC’s Newton Campus is an economic development engine that powers successful businesses by providing skilled and dedicated workers. DMACC helps fuel every sector of the Central Iowa economy.

Each year hundreds of Jasper county residents of all ages enroll in DMACC’s credit and noncredit programs. Once they graduate, 95 percent stay here which means they become tax paying citizens who work and serve in our communities each day.

We’ve seen throughout the years how important DMACC has been to our region. As our economy demands more mid to highly skilled workers, we will be turning to DMACC to educate and train students as they prepare for these.

DMACC programs also have links to unemployed and underemployed workers who need skills that allow them to transition into employment and self-sufficiency.

There are many reasons to support DMACC. I encourage you to go to the polls on Tuesday and Vote Yes for these levies. It’s a vote for economic development and job growth too.

Chaz Allen

Executive Director

Jasper County Economic

Development Corporation