People and businesses pay property taxes for numerous services/facilities that they never use (Parks, road maintenance/construction, police, fire, public works and even schools). I was happy to have my street plowed, but I never called the police or fire department last year. My kids didn't benefit from that elementary school remodel either. You won't see me complaining. Why would anyone?
No... I don't know everyone in the school district I live in. Do you?
I'm willing to bet that those people you're referring to are still there because they and/or their kids went through the school system they live in. They support the local businesses and school activities just like the people that do have kids. I think you need to come up with a better one actually.
The reality is that Urbandale, Johnston, Valley, Waukee, SEP, Ankeny, etc. will not allow a student to go to their school for academic or athletic purposes unless they live there and pay taxes. Johnston just built an 80 million dollar high school opening in August. The taxpayers are footing over half of the bill. Even though they are going to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars more a year in property taxes it still passed. The positive economic impact on property values alone will more than make up the difference in the long run. Can you imagine the consequences the Johnston School Board would face if they just said, "Hey everybody! We just made a bigger, state-of-the-art high school. If you feel like attending just sign up and we'll find a spot for you. We're not crowded anymore, so come on in". I want my money to benefit the families that live in my community. When that happens people will stay and live there.
If you want a good example of what open enrollment can do to a school system just look at Van Meter.
