TAX IMPACT

The size and cost of the projects in this referendum exceed what the annual operating budget of the school district can accommodate. While the district has effectively managed general upkeep and smaller projects over the years, larger projects, such as roofs and HVAC systems, typically require voter approval through a school building bond. Similar to how major home improvements often necessitate a loan, significant updates in school districts usually require community approval through a referendum.

When costs are estimated at this stage of the process, they are based off industry-wide database information (i.e. Mortenson, RS Means, etc.) that construction companies use, similar recently completed work by our partners, and at times, conversations with specific suppliers/contractors for specialized work. An industry-wide escalator is used to account for inflation and construction increases for work that would be scheduled out a year or more. If the referendum passes, bids are solicited from qualified companies by the school board and contractor/supplier decisions are made by the board.