Learn About the Cost of the Plan
On or before Tuesday, November 4, residents will decide whether to invest $21.7 million for critical facility and educational improvements at both schools by casting their vote. The proposed plan includes building a fine arts learning center addition, a new secured entrance and office area, adding windows to several classrooms, replacing underfloor sewer pipe, and other improvements at our junior/senior high school. The plan also includes replacing the original 1954 elevator and making additional exterior and interior improvements, such as tuckpointing and door replacements at our elementary school.
Across the State of Minnesota, facility improvements for public schools are funded through property tax increases. Our district and school board are committed to using taxpayer dollars wisely across all areas, particularly for a proposed building bond referendum like ours. We have worked carefully to ensure that the proposed $21.7 million bond referendum reflects residents' priorities and provides high value for taxpayer investment in our school.
If approved by voters, this investment would be supported by a property tax increase that would take effect in 2026 and expire after 2046 or when the bonds for the project have been paid, whichever happens sooner. If approved, all revenue from the tax increase will go directly to the proposed projects. Our district cannot spend more than the amount stated on the ballot or use the funds for additional projects not included in the referendum plan.
How does the plan impact my property taxes?
Your individual tax impact will depend on the value of the property you own. For a $200,000 residential home in the district, the estimated tax impact is approximately $7 per month starting in 2026. For an agricultural homestead with an estimated market value of $10,000 per acre, the estimated tax impact would be $0.06 per acre per month ($0.75 per acre per year) starting in 2026.
You can calculate your estimated tax impact using our tax calculator here.
Attention agricultural landowners!
The State of Minnesota’s Ag2School Tax Credit is a 70% tax credit provided to all agricultural property except the house, garage, and one acre surrounding the agricultural homestead for building bond referendums. This is not a tax deduction – it’s a dollar-for-dollar credit and is an automatic tax credit paid directly by the state with no application required. This credit would remain at 70% for the life of the bond.
The State of Minnesota’s Ag2School Tax Credit reduces the contribution percentage for agricultural landowners to 30%. If approved, approximately 26% of the total bond referendum’s principal and interest will be covered by the state’s 70% tax credit.
