Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is on the ballot this November?
A single ballot question will ask voters to approve both a bond referendum and a capital projects levy. These funding mechanisms would support facility improvements, safety upgrades, technology infrastructure, and operational needs identified by the community task force and school board.

Q2: Why is the district proposing both a bond and a levy?
Combining a building bond (for physical improvements) and a capital projects levy (for technology and related expenses) allows the district to address multiple urgent needs through one coordinated funding plan, avoiding multiple elections and reducing long-term taxpayer costs.

Q3: What is the difference between a levy and a bond?
Levies fund educational programming, student services, staffing and maintenance. Funds are used the same year they are received. These help address ongoing budget challenges and make up for state aid that has not kept up with operating expenses. Bonds are used to pay for major building projects, such as renovations or building a school. A bond is typically financed over an extended period - sometimes up to 30 years.

Learn more about Minnesota School Funding and Challenges: Minnesota School Funding.mp4

Q4: Who developed the plan?
A community task force made up of over forty local stakeholders, educators, and residents spent several months reviewing data, survey results, and facilities assessments before providing recommendations to the school board. The board used these insights to approve the final proposal.

Q5: What is the estimated tax impact?
The estimated annual tax impact on a home valued at $200,000 is approximately $37 per month. Agricultural homestead and non-homestead land and commercial property are also affected at various rates, adjusted based on current property values.

Q6: Does the Ag2School Credit apply?
Yes. For debt service on school bonds, the State of Minnesota currently covers 70% of the tax burden on qualifying agricultural property through the Ag2School Credit. In effect, the state will pay approximately 49% (nearly $28.5 million) of a building and renovation costs should the vote pass. This significantly reduces the local share for farmers and rural landowners. (Note: The credit does not apply to the capital projects levy portion.)

Q7: What happens if the actual construction costs are lower than expected?
If the bond proposal is approved and project costs come in under budget, the district may apply remaining funds to other approved facility needs or reduce future debt levies.

Q8: Why is this needed now?
Breckenridge school buildings are aging and expensive to operate. The elementary building, in particular, requires costly repairs, while the high school needs deferred maintenance and space upgrades. Updated facilities will also allow for cost savings in operations, more flexible learning, better safety and security, and modernized special education and vocational spaces.

Q9: Will students benefit academically from the proposed improvements?
Yes. The improvements are designed to support safe, modern learning environments. Enhancements to special education, STEM and science labs, flexible instructional spaces, and vocational classrooms are expected to improve student engagement and opportunities.

Q10: Will any buildings be demolished or repurposed?
The school district and City are exploring a potential partnership regarding the current elementary site which may include repurposing and/or demolishing the current elementary to allow for residential housing development.

Q11: When is the election?
Election Day is Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Polls will be open until 8:00 PM at the Breckenridge High School (710 13th St. N).

Q12: Who can vote?
All registered voters who reside within the boundaries of Breckenridge Public Schools (ISD #846) are eligible to vote. You can check or update your registration at mnvotes.org.

Q13: Can I vote early or by mail?
Yes. Minnesota offers both early in-person voting and absentee voting by mail. Details will be provided on the district’s website or can be obtained from the Wilkin County Elections Office.

Q14: How did the community provide input?
In Fall 2024, a random-sample community survey was conducted. Results showed strong initial and informed support for improvements, particularly those in school safety, special education, and support for struggling learners.

Q15: Where can I learn more or ask questions?
Please visit the district’s Referendum Information Hub or attend an upcoming public meeting. You can also email your questions to: questions@isd846.org