I urge everyone to get out and vote No on the S.D. 564 referendum, whether they choose to vote early or cast their ballot in person on Election Day. If this measure were to pass, it would result in a significant increase of approximately 35% in the amount each taxpayer pays to the school district. As taxpayers, we are already taxed enough!
A tax hike like this would disproportionately affect retired citizens who have some of the most valuable homes but also the lowest incomes. Unemployed or underemployed individuals and young people buying their first home would also be negatively impacted.
Contrary to all the negative propaganda being spewed out by the school board, there are many items that can be cut from the S.D. 564 budget. Unfortunately, our school board seems to misunderstand the difference between needs and wants. Our only obligation as taxpayers is to fund a basic K-12 education of the three R’s – reading, writing, and arithmetic.
Enrollment in the district has been declining due to families having fewer children, open enrollment options, and homeschooling. As a result, expenses will decrease for S.D. 564, meaning there will be fewer buildings, employees, buses, and utilities needed. Consequently, less tax money will be required.
One way to balance the budget would be with an across-the-board pay cut for all school district employees starting with the superintendent and working down to the building cleaners. Superintendent Mills estimates it would only require a 9% reduction in pay – certainly doable and an option our school board should pursue.
We, as taxpayers, are not against funding education; we already contribute a good amount of tax money to S.D. 564. We simply oppose a 35% increase in the taxes we pay to the school district. Our children and grandchildren will thrive regardless of what level of funding we provide to S.D. 564.
As with last year, the school board has used deceitful tactics to try and “pull the wool over our eyes.” The $200,000 they claim would be saved is equivalent to a tarpaper shack in S.D. 564. To make it seem even more insignificant, the school board divided this amount by 12 – although real estate taxes are paid yearly with an option for two installments.
Again, I urge everyone to get out and vote No on the S.D. 564 referendum whether you choose to vote early or cast your ballot in person on Election Day.
Sincerely, Greg Hallstrom Thief River Falls