Ben Bonnett

The presentation covered the current year's budget and the proposed property tax levy for the next year, as required by Minnesota state law. Key discussion points included the state funding formulas, noting that the general education formula allowance has lagged behind inflation since 2002-2003, and the ongoing underfunding of special education. The presentation detailed the structure of the school district budget across various funds. It also explained that changes in the tax levy are based on state formulas and do not automatically equate to budget changes, emphasizing the impact of property value assessments on tax burden (equalization). The proposed 2026 levy is a 4.6% increase from 2025, designed to keep the district's tax rate constant. This increase is largely driven by the Long-Term Facilities Maintenance (LTFM) levy for deferred maintenance and roofing projects, partially offset by a small decrease in the debt service excess levy. Information was also provided regarding property tax relief options available to taxpayers.

The Organizational Meeting included the approval of the agenda following the call to order. Key organizational actions involved the nomination and election of the Chair, Clerk, and Treasurer for 2026. The board reviewed and approved the 2026 meeting schedule, adjusting the start time to 6:00 PM and moving the May 27 meeting to May 20. Other actions included designating the official newspaper as the Patriot and Old National Bank as a depository for school funds. The board confirmed compensation rates for members, approved the use of facsimile signature stamps for checks, authorized electronic fund transfers, and updated committee and representative assignments for 2026. Legal counsel was approved, the IRS mileage reimbursement rate was set at 72.5 cents per mile, and several organization memberships were approved. Finally, the board accepted the retirement of High School Principal Bob Dockendorf.

The primary discussion topic was the Truth in Taxation Hearing for taxes payable in 2026. The Director of Business Services presented the information and solicited questions or comments from the public regarding the taxation schedule.

The Board of Education meeting included approval of the agenda and confirmation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Key actions taken under the consent agenda involved approving claims and accounts for December, the credit card report, personnel actions including resignations, new hires, and transfers, approval of fundraising activities, an amended SRO contract, and extended field trip requests for Girls Basketball, Wrestling, and Robotics. The board approved several donations from various local clubs and organizations designated for purposes such as coach stipends, event funding, and student needs. Financial reports for November were approved, followed by the approval of the Pay 2026 Property Tax Levy Certification. A bid for the 2026 building envelope improvement project was approved, awarded to Granite City Roofing. The date for the Joint Powers Meeting was set for January 15, 2026. Updates were provided by committee representatives, and the Superintendent gave his monthly report. The session concluded with the announcement and approval to enter a closed session for negotiation strategy after the regular meeting adjourned.

The work session focused on three primary discussion points. The first topic involved reviewing and planning for the Joint Powers Meeting presentation, aiming to utilize an updated format similar to the previous year. Secondly, the board discussed the 2026-2027 school calendar, specifically regarding a start date preceding Labor Day. The final substantive discussion addressed the budget update, covering potential cost reductions, the associated timeline, and necessary adjustments to class sizes.