Community imperative: Link or sink

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Commentary by Dr. Scott Robison

I am proud to be a teacher and school leader by training, experience and “student-growth-first” DNA. Cooperation and collaborative exploration are superchargers for the core mission of learning. Similarly, protecting and growing the power to serve youth of a community school district (which is also a local government entity) simply requires a link or sink mindset. Zionsville has recently shown all of Indiana how it must be done.

The successful ZCS-Town/Redevelopment Commission partnership to establish economic development through acquisition of the Dow property is a fitting “sum larger than the individual parts” exemplar for other Indiana communities and their school districts. Gone are the days of viability for local government entities that operate completely in silos. If ZCS did not have partners like the Town, ZPD, ZFD, the Street Department – as well as partnering entities like the Sheriff and many important sub-agencies of Boone County – we would sink.

Transcending a mere “win-win” situation, the Dow Property Partnership is at least a five-way win for Zionsville.

  1. Foremost, taxpayer and ZCS interests are protected in many ways. For example, the agreement includes a guarantee of full repayment plus interest for ZCS bond use by the Town/RDC to acquire and develop the property.
  2. ZCS gets a suitable, non-residential site for a maintenance facility/warehouse needed and planned for nearly a decade ago.
  3. Adds nothing to local property taxpayers’ burden but finally implements a need on the tax rolls since 2006.
  4. The Town/RDC can finally call the shots on catalyzing development of this beautiful “gateway” parcel of land.
  5. All current taxpayers will be aided by the diversification of assessed valuation. New corporate/business taxpayers in place will, over time, reduce other business and homeowners’ tax rates.

Necessity is, indeed, the mother of invention. Because it works well and is necessary, Zionsville collaborates, helps and partners. Current times do not often provide examples of government success and cooperation worthy of our schoolchildren’s attention.

I am fortunate to work on behalf of youth – the future. To all elected and appointed Zionsville leaders who moved this complex matter to fruition, the future thanks you!

 

Scott Robison, Superintendent

Zionsville Community Schools

 


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