Of the eight candidates running for seats on the IKM-Manning School Board, only three are incumbents and that includes At-Large Board Member, Luke Potthoff of Manning. Potthoff is a 2005 Manning High School alum, and his wife, Taylor, is a 2007 IKM High School graduate. The couple has three children: Harper, who is in first-grade; Cora, who is enrolled in the Zion Lutheran Preschool Program; and four-month-old Kyler. He says his family’s roots grow deep in the communities that make up IKM-Manning, and that connection is what made him to decide to run for reelection.
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The chief concern heading into next week’s election is how to address the district’s aging facilities. A recent $19.95 million bond referendum for improvements and expansions at the Irwin and Manning sites failed to reach the 60-percent approval needed to pass, and the board is instead pursuing a $1.24 physical plant and equipment (PPEL) levy on the Nov. 2 ballot to pay for some of the most pressing needs. Potthoff says there is no denying that work is needed at these buildings and he views the levy as an investment for each community in the district.
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According to Potthoff, total enrollment at IKM-Manning has been on the rise in recent years. However, if stakeholders want that trend to continue, He says they need to ensure young families are drawn to a thriving school and communities.
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There are four candidates running for the two at-large seats on the Nov. 2 ballot. Potthoff says his experience on the board and investment in IKM-Manning makes him an attractive option to represent all stakeholders.
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The other candidates running for the at-large positions are: Phil Stracke of Manilla; incumbent, Sam Hansen of Manning; and Mike Blum of Manning. Carroll Broadcasting will bring you more from these individuals in upcoming newscasts.