The Atwater-Cosmos-Grove City (ACGC) School Board is set to consider a resolution at their upcoming June 24 regular board meeting. The board will vote on whether to exercise their authority to renew the operating levy, a power recently granted by the 2023 Minnesota Legislative Session. This legislative change allows school boards to renew existing operating levies without requiring voter approval, provided the renewal does not exceed the current authority and duration.
Background on the Operating Levy
The existing operating levy, which voters initially approved in 2014, allocates $504.65 per student and has been a critical component of the district's funding since it commenced in 2016. This levy is scheduled to generate $477,702 in revenue for the fiscal year 2024-2025, supporting various educational programs and operational needs within the ACGC School District.
The levy, which spans ten years, is nearing the end of its term, prompting the board to consider its renewal. Given the stability and predictability this funding provides, the board's potential decision to renew the levy could ensure continued financial support for the district's operations without interruption.
Legislative Context
The 2023 Minnesota Legislative Session's new provision empowers school boards to renew operating levies directly, up to the same amount and duration as previously approved by voters. This change aims to streamline the renewal process, reducing administrative burdens, eliminating the need to hold a costly levy election and preventing potential funding gaps.
For the ACGC School Board, this means they can maintain the current levy rate and its ten-year duration, ensuring that the district remains adequately funded to support its educational mandates.
Implications of the Renewal
If the board votes to renew the levy, the district will continue to receive steady funding. This would allow the school district to maintain its current programming and possibly even plan for future enhancements with greater financial security.
Board members and district officials have indicated that the levy funds are crucial for maintaining quality education within the district. They help cover costs that state and federal funding do not fully address, including classroom materials, technology, and support staff salaries.
Community Involvement and Transparency
While the legislative change allows the board to renew the levy without a public vote, the ACGC School Board remains committed to transparency and community involvement. The Board desires to be proactive in its approach to ensuring fiscal stability and a quality education in the ACGC School District. Community members are welcome to speak during the Public Comment portion of the board meeting on June 24th.
As the ACGC School Board prepares to vote on this resolution, the potential renewal of the operating levy represents a strategic move to maintain financial stability and uphold the district's commitment to providing high-quality education to its students. The June 24, 2024 Regular Meeting of the ACGC School Board will be at 6:00pm at the Cosmos Community Center. Please contact Superintendent Kip Lynk with any questions about the resolution at 320-244-4712.