Dallas County Bond

Dallas County, Iowa is proposing a bond referendum on the November 4, 2025 ballot to fund the construction of a new criminal court building in Adel. Here's an overview of the proposal:

Why the Bond Is Being Proposed

Dallas County has experienced:

  • A 45% population increase over the past decade.
  • A 40% rise in all types of court cases during the same period 

The current courthouse, built over 120 years ago, lacks:

  • Sufficient courtroom space.
  • Modern security features.
  • Adequate technology infrastructure.
  • Separate entrances for in-custody defendants, posing safety risks.

The new building is part of a long-range facilities plan developed in collaboration with judicial officials, law enforcement, and county attorneys.

Bond Amount and Use of Funds

Total Cost: $61.7 million

  • $5.8 million from direct owner costs.
  • $56.9 million financed through bond sales.

The proposed three-story, 84,143 sq. ft. facility will include:

  • Six courtrooms dedicated to criminal and juvenile cases.
  • Offices for:
    • Dallas County Attorney
    • Juvenile Court Services
    • Department of Corrections (Parole & Probation)
    • Criminal division of the Clerk of Courts
    • Sheriff’s Deputies
  • Secure entrance with checkpoint
  • Public and staff meeting spaces
  • Partial basement for law enforcement access.

Repayment Plan and Tax Impact

  • The county will conduct two separate bond sales.
  • Bonds will have 20-year maturities.
  • Debt will be repaid via the debt service levy assessed to all property owners, including those in TIF districts.

Estimated annual tax impact:

  • $18.56 per $100,000 home (under age 65)
  • $15.65 per $100,000 home (over age 65 with Homestead Tax Exemption)
  • $0.52 per acre for agricultural land.