Referendum 2026

Announcement

On June 8, the Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools (PLSAS) Board of Education voted to place two funding questions on the November 3, 2026 ballot for community consideration.

Question 1 asks voters to replace the district’s current operating levy of $623.97 per student with a new authorization of $1,740.97 per student. If approved, this would generate approximately $10.27 million in additional funding in the first year, with an inflation adjustment applied in years 2–10.

Question 2 is a capital projects levy that would only take effect if Question 1 is approved. The proposed capital project levy authorization will raise approximately $3.8 million for taxes payable in 2028, the first year it is to be levied, and would be authorized for 10 years.It would maintain funding at the current tax rate level, with no rate increase for the first year. 

While the district sets the total levy, individual tax bills may still change over time based on changing property values across the community. This means some homeowners may see different impacts than others, even while the school tax rate remains stable.

Financial Forecast: The Board’s action follows several months of financial review and community input focused on long-term planning. Like many school districts across Minnesota, PLSAS continues to face financial pressure as state funding has not kept pace with inflation for more than two decades. Currently, PLSAS receives $3,094 less per student in total funding than the state average. At the same time, enrollment trends and rising operational costs continue to impact the budget. The district continues to review efficiencies while supporting student programs and operations.

Since 2024, the district has reduced $8.1 million from its general fund and an additional $4.15 million in reductions for next school year. Based on current financial projections, approximately $3 million in additional budget reductions are anticipated for the 2027–28 school year, regardless of the referendum outcome. 

Purpose of the Proposed Funding
If approved, Question 1 would fund daily school operations and programs, and help reduce the level of future budget reductions. Question 2 would support areas such as school safety, technology infrastructure, instructional resources, and ongoing maintenance. 

Next Steps and Information
The district is preparing informational materials to ensure community members understand the referendum questions prior to Election Day on November 3. Information will be shared through mailings, emails, community presentations, the district website, social media channels, and through the Prior Lake News Compass ahead of Election Day. To view the recording of the June 8 Board meeting, click here.