Special election results show $1.6M park bond passes

Voters decided they want more recreational opportunities and better facilities in Newton parks, based on early results of the Sept. 13 special election.

Public Measure B asked Newton residents the following question: “Shall the City of Newton, Jasper County, State of Iowa, enter into a loan agreement and issue general obligation bonds in an amount not exceeding $1,600,000 for the purpose of paying the cost, to that extent, of (1) demolition of the existing Westwood Golf Course clubhouse and construction of a new clubhouse structure, including related site improvements; (2) construction and/or installation of improvements to the Maytag Pool; (3) construction and installation of pickle ball courts at the existing Aurora Park; and (4) construction of a dog park at the existing Sunset Park?”

Preliminary results posted by Jasper County Auditor’s Office show the 736 votes, or about 71 percent, were in favor of the $1.6 million bond referendum, while 297 votes, or about 29 percent, were against it. A total of 1,033 votes were counted. Until votes are canvassed by the board of supervisors, results are not yet final.

Only 60 percent of the vote was needed to pass the bond.

Newton Mayor Mike Hansen said he is “really, really happy” for the community. The bond issue offered a number of amenities that could speak to a number of people. Hansen said there was something in there for everyone that was interested in seeing qualify of life enhancements in the park systems.

Four parks projects were included in the city’s $1.6 million bond referendum: the construction of a new, long-awaited clubhouse at WestWood Golf Course, new play features at Maytag Pool, the installation of pickle ball courts at Aurora Park and a fenced-in dog park at Sunset Park.

“I’m very, very pleased and I’m very, very thankful to all of those that came out and voted — whether you voted for or against,” Hansen said. “That’s why we ask the public to consider these measures and tell us what they want to do. So I’m very pleased and excited we’ll be able to move forward with these projects.”

Replacing the clubhouse at Westwood has been a long and arduous effort, and it has gone through numerous designs with varying price tags. The latest site plan showcases a downsized design with an outdoor patio and open-air shelter to accommodate larger tournaments. The new clubhouse is estimated at $1 million.

However, the bond will only pay for a portion of the clubhouse. The remaining funds will be covered by private donors.

Prior to settling on a bond referendum, the city tried to get the support of the Jasper County Board of Supervisors to establish an urban renewal area in 2021. Since the clubhouse is outside city limits, the board of supervisors would need to give permission. But the supervisors inevitably blocked the idea.

Informational flyers were distributed to Newton residents long before the special election was held. The four-page flyer showed what the bond referendum would go towards and provided greater detail into the enhancements and amenities that each project would afford through the bond and private donations.

Maytag Pool would get new play features in the shallow end, a safer three-meeter diving board with stairs instead of a ladder, a rock climbing wall or other similar amenity and new shade structures. The city said the upgrades were needed to continue making the pool an enjoyable summer activity.

Pickle ball courts at Aurora Park would be constructed as a stand-alone facility, which includes new pavement, surfacing, fencing and nets. Site improvements include court lighting, shade/shelter structures and seating areas. The site also allows for future expansion and does not affect existing tennis courts.

Construction of a dog park at Sunset Park would include separate areas for small and large dogs. Site improvements may include dog water stations, seating, walking trails and shade and shelter structures. Like the pickle ball courts at Aurora Park, there is room for improvements and will not affect the sledding hill.

Contact Christopher Braunschweig at 641-792-3121 ext 560 or at cbraunschweig@newtondailynews.com