The Nov. 4 referendum to finance a new $27-million police station will give Bettendorf residents a rare opportunity to weigh in on the city's decades-long spending spree that has led to a $152-million municipal debt, among the highest in the state.
The need for the new police station may end up being a secondary consideration to residents' concerns over the long-term indebtedness of the city.
Moreover, the referendum needs a 60 percent majority vote at a time when state and local property taxes are under greater scrutiny and amid criticism of local tax spending by state politicians.
