Lake Mills Area School District Approves Referendum Questions

According to an update from the Lake Mills Area School District, the board of education recently took formal action to finalize two referendum questions for the November 8, 2022, Fall General Election ballot. The Board voted unanimously (5-0) to present school district residents with two separate questions related to addressing continuing growth at the elementary level, including one to build a new intermediate school for grades 3-5 and one to support the ongoing costs associated with operating this building into the future.

Question one requests permission to borrow up to $44 million to fund the construction of a new Grade 3-5 Intermediate School on district-owned land off Highway 89 and Unzhaven Road. Funds will go towards all construction, site improvements, furniture, fixtures and equipment, professional services, permitting, etc.

If approved by voters, the estimated tax increase (over the current mill rate for referendum debt payments) would be $0.25 per $1 thousand of fair market property value or $25 per year for every $100 thousand of property value for approximately 20-21 years. The increase would go into effect starting with the December 2022 tax bills.

Question two requests permission to exceed the existing revenue limit on a recurring basis for up to $950 thousand each year. Funds to be used to support additional ongoing operational costs associated with operating a new (fourth) school in the district including staffing, utilities, maintenance, technology, etc.

If approved by voters, the estimated maximum tax increase (over the current tax mill rate) would be $0.68 per $1 thousand of fair market property value or $68 per year for every $100 thousand of property value. This increase would go into effect starting with the December 2024 tax bills and remain at this level to support annual operating costs.

The Lake Mills Area School District is offering multiple events for individuals to learn more about the referendum. For more information, visit https://www.lakemills.k12.wi.us/district/important-dates-and-learning-opportunities.cfm.