The Fairfield Community School District’s $24.8 million general obligation bond referendum passed Tuesday, clearing the 60% threshold required for school bonds in Iowa — succeeding after two previous attempts fell short.
Of 6,203 unofficial votes cast, 4,214 favored the measure (67.93%) and 1,989 opposed.
The district had tried twice before. In November 2024, a bond measure received 57.9% approval — 4,113 yes to 2,980 no out of 7,093 votes cast — just short of the 60% threshold. In November 2025, the bond received 55.7% approval — 2,029 yes to 1,613 no out of 3,642 votes cast — also falling short.
The district said it will move forward with plans to address facility needs at Fairfield Middle School through the proposed construction of a new middle school for students in grades 5-8.
Superintendent Zach Wigle said the district is grateful for community support.
“We are grateful to the community for its support and for recognizing the importance of investing in the future of our students and schools,” Wigle said. “This is an important step toward addressing the long-standing needs at Fairfield Middle School. We appreciate everyone who took the time to learn about the proposal and participate in the election process.”
Fairfield Middle School was originally constructed in 1966. Building assessments completed by architects and engineers identified millions of dollars’ worth of critical infrastructure problems and deficiencies, including areas of the school that do not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
With voter approval, the district said it can now move forward with the proposed project, which will be funded through general obligation bonds and SAVE dollars. The project is designed to address critical building needs while providing students and staff with a more modern, accessible learning environment.
