Referendum 2026
Strong Classrooms - Safe Schools
What is an operating levy referendum?
An operating levy generates revenue for school districts and requires voter approval. Operating levies provide funding for the district's daily operational expenses, covering the shortfall between state and federal funding and the expectations expressed by many in our community.
What is a capital projects levy?
A capital projects levy is a voter-approved source of funding that allows school districts to pay for major physical improvements to district facilities, safety & security, and technology infrastructure. It allows a pay as we go model to address these areas of concern.
What's on the ballot?
The School Board of Independent School District No. 719, Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools, will hold a referendum on November 3, 2026, asking voters to approve two questions.
Question #1, Operating Levy
Revoke the existing operating levy amount of $623.97 per student and replace it with a new levy of $1,740.97 per student.
- The proposed operating levy would be in place for 10 years beginning with the 2027-2028 school year.
- The estimated tax impact on a house with a $525,000 value will be about $46 per month.
- The per student amount will increase each year beginning in the 2028-2029 school year at the rate of inflation, as determined by the state.
Question #2, Capital Projects Levy
Proposes a capital projects levy to raise about $3.8 million per year for the next 10 years beginning with the 2028-2029 school year.
- There is no tax increase in the first year of this levy.
- A decrease in the district's debt service levy will offset the tax impact of the capital projects levy. The chart shows how the tax impact will not change when the capital projects levy is implemented.
- Tax impact on individual properties may increase in future years if a property value increases.
- The capital projects levy will only be implemented if Question 1 & 2 are passed.
Question 2 is contingent on the passage of Question 1, meaning it can only pass if Question 1 passes.
*The projects to be funded have received a positive Review and Comment from the Commissioner of Education.
Question 1:
Operating Referendum Levy
An operating levy provides funding for the day-to-day costs of operating schools.
Funding would support:
- Teachers & support staff
- Daily school operations
- School programs
Purpose
Provide additional local funding to help maintain current school operations and lessen the amount of future budget cuts needed.
Question 2:
Capital Projects Levy
Only takes effect if Question 1 & 2 pass
A capital projects levy provides dedicated funding for specific long-term needs.
Funding would support:
- School safety improvements
- Secure student entrance at Prior Lake High School
- Security window film at all schools
- Expanded surveillance cameras
-
Curriculum and textbooks
-
Replacing aging technology infrastructure that supports learning
-
Ongoing upkeep of schools
-
Maintaining playgrounds with inclusion
Purpose
Maintain safe schools and the facilities, technology, and instructional resources that support learning.