FAQ

The district anticipates that the proposed operating referendum ($254,000) plus the Permanent School Fund Amendment ($20,000-25,000) would provide approximately $275,000 in additional annual revenue without raising taxes. This additional revenue would be used as part of the district's overall operating budget to help address the gap between available revenue and ongoing expenses.

A new Minnesota law provides seasonal tax base replacement aid (STBRA) to eligible school districts. This aid is based partly on the value of qualifying seasonal recreational property and is used to reduce the amount of the school’s referendum levy paid through local property taxes.

Levys are for learning. They CANNOT be used on buildings, sports fields or additions. Levy money can ONLY be used to directly impact student learning through staffing and materials.

If the proposed operating referendum does not pass, the district will need to make substantial additional reductions to its budget. Potential impacts may include salary freezes, reductions in staffing, changes to extracurricular and elective programming, and fewer resources for classroom technology and other student needs. 

The school is the largest employer in Eden Valley Watkins. It brings in consumers by bringing in families. This helps our communities grow and prosper.

In Simple Terms: STBRA = More referendum funding for EVW - while Minnesota’s new law shifts part of the tax burden toward the broader seasonal/recreational property tax base. 

The funds would be used for everyday school expenses such as maintaining classroom instruction, staffing, academic programs, and activities.

The district will continue to evaluate its budget, enrollment, funding levels, and expenses each year as it works to balance financial responsibility with the educational needs of students. 

Generates $254,000 annually for EVW. This adds up to $2.5 Million over 10 years.