DES MOINES, Iowa —

"Bond referendum" is a fancy way of saying a local government body is asking voters to fund a big item.

A new building, upgrades to facilities, or other things.

There are 55 proposals going before voters on Nov. 4 for a total of $1.6 billion, according to Iowans for Tax Relief.

It's important for voters to consider the ask, says ITF President Chris Hagenow.

"It's separating the wants versus the needs. If something needs to happen, then voters should be aware of that, and that, that obviously, may qualify for voting for a bond," Hagenow says.

Of the 55 proposals, there are 41 from school districts (including five metro districts), 10 from cities, two from counties ( including Dallas County ), and two from community colleges.

Some bond issues will be familiar, say

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