School District to present referendum

BRODHEAD — On Wednesday, Jan. 13th, the Brodhead School Board unanimously passed a resolution to present a referendum at the spring election on Tuesday, April 5th.

The referendum seeks permission for the district to exceed state revenue caps for the purpose of maintaining facilities and programs at their current levels and reducing debt.

This action follows months of review of long-term budget projections and consideration of input received during public meetings held Monday, Sept. 28th and Tuesday, Nov. 10th.

Our School District continues to face financial challenges as a result of reduced state funding and declining enrollment. Over time, state budget cuts have had a significant impact on the district’s budget. Since deficit spending is not sustainable over the long term, the board is faced with the unenviable task of either continuing to cut expenses or increase revenues. Neither of these is an attractive choice.

Reducing expenses further will mean a reduction or elimination of programs, which will be detrimental to our students and community. The only way to increase revenues is by seeking community approval through the referendum process.

The board has studied cuts that will be necessary to remain within the budget without additional revenues. After looking at the potential impact, they feel it would be irresponsible to make these cuts without first giving the community the chance to determine if it wishes to provide the extra funding needed to keep these programs. This opportunity comes in the form of a referendum.

The idea of presenting the community with a choice through referendum was one of the messages heard during the public meetings.

The Board is also sensitive to the economic state of the community and has scheduled the referendum with an eye toward limiting the tax impact. Community members recommended trying to keep the tax impact consistent. They also felt it was important to maintain a school system that would continue to be competitive with areas schools.

Over the next three weeks in this space, we’ll address three important questions. First, why is a referendum needed? Second, what cost-saving measures have already been made to address shortfalls? Finally, what is the tax impact of the proposed referendum (i.e., what will it cost me)?

In addition to these news articles, the Brodhead School Board has scheduled a Public Meeting/Open House to provide information on the referendum election for 6 p.m. on Monday, March 28th in the high school’s auditeria.

District Board members are also available to make presentations to any community groups wishing to learn more about the referendum. If your organization would like to host a presentation, please call the School District Office (897-2141).

Please mark your calendars to get out and vote on Tuesday, April 5th, and watch the newspapers for more information about this important community issue.