Candidates split over Oshkosh Area School District referendum; $200 million total cited

Oshkosh — Support and opposition to a proposed facilities referendum emerged as a clear dividing line among three candidates for the Oshkosh Area School Board at a League of Women Voters forum.

Incumbent Molly Smilnick said she supports the referendum and described consolidation and centralized early‑childhood services as a route to better learning environments for young students. She cited accessibility and air‑quality concerns at older facilities and said consolidating services could better serve 4‑year‑olds in a central location.

Challenger Michael Ford also said he supports the referendum despite its cost, and he urged voters to weigh the long‑term facility needs against a near‑term tax cut. “This isn't free. It costs almost $200,000,000,” Ford said. He said updated buildings and improved indoor air quality are foundational to recruiting teachers and competing for families.

Challenger Jacob Wolf said he opposes the referendum as currently proposed. Wolf praised parts of the plan but said the process lacked transparency, pointed to zoning issues tied to South Park, and said the district should “revisit it and come up with a new plan and a new solution.”

None of the candidates supplied a complete line‑item breakdown of the referendum in the forum. Ford said that if the referendum fails, the district will need to “triage” repairs and that the debt levy would fall if the measure does not pass. Smilnick said the referendum would allow the district to address deferred maintenance and accessibility issues she said hinder learning.

The candidates’ remarks did not include formal budget documents or a full scope of projects tied to the referendum; voters seeking details should consult official district referendum materials before voting on April 1.