Orange City, Iowa — Orange City residents are going to the polls today to decide the fate of a five-million-dollar bond referendum, with the money going toward a new comprehensive wellness center.
Orange City Health System CEO Marty Guthmiller tells us about the proposed facility.
Guthmiller tells us they expect the property tax rate to increase $1.50 per $1000 of valuation. If the bond vote is successful Guthmiller says they hope to start construction next spring, and it will take 12 to 18 months from that date to complete.
According to officials, the funding plan is to get $5 million through the bond issue; $10 million in Orange City Area Health System loans; (including a $5 million USDA Direct Loan a $2 million USDA “Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant” Loan and $3 million in bank loans from three local banks); and $5 million through a philanthropic campaign and hospital cash, for a total of $20 million.
The text of the question on the ballot reads, “Shall the City of Orange City, State of Iowa, issue its General Obligation Capital Loan Notes in an amount not to exceed $5,000,000 for the purpose of construction of a Center for Healthy Living by the Orange City Municipal Hospital d/b/a Orange City Area Health System?”
Polls are open until 8:00 p.m. this evening. Since it is a bond question, the measure requires a “super-majority” of 60 percent to pass.
Photo (concept drawing) courtesy Orange City Area Health System. Used by permission.
