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Annandale board ramps up operating-levy outreach, approves agreement to run Nov. 4 special election
Summary
The Annandale Public School District board advanced community outreach for an operating levy referendum and approved an agreement with the City of Annandale to administer the district—s Nov. 4, 2025 special election. Board members emphasized voter information, early voting options and coordination with Stearns County townships.
The Annandale Public School District board at its regular meeting advanced outreach for an operating-levy referendum and approved an agreement with the City of Annandale to administer the district—s special election on Nov. 4, 2025.
Board members described an active campaign of presentations to townships and civic groups, a microsite and an FAQ intended to answer common questions about the levy and how it will be implemented. They said a consultant paid for by a private donor is assisting the district—s outreach and that short testimonial videos from staff will be released as part of the effort.
District speakers urged residents to use the district's vote-information resources. Early voting has started and the board described options including mail ballots submitted through the county and in-person early voting. The board noted two townships in Stearns CountyLinden and Fairhavenwill vote at Annandale City Hall on election day; Stearns County residents otherwise will use the Stearns County Courthouse for early voting.
The board approved an agreement with the City of Annandale for administration of the Nov. 4 special election and then adopted a resolution appointing election judges. Board members also voted to approve the district's levy calculation for the coming year and to request the maximum levy amount as allowed by state calculations.
Board members said they are tracking common public questions and adding answers to the district FAQ. Officials identified the items the district expects voters to ask about most oftenhow the levy amount was chosen, the effect on property owners with large tracts of land and what portions of property value are taxed.
On levy math, board members said the district's request was based on multi-year budget analysis, enrollment trends and a review of program and personnel costs. The board noted that some taxpayers who own large amounts of land are taxed only on their house, garage and one acre for levy calculations.
Votes at a glance - Agreement with City of Annandale to administer Nov. 4, 2025 special election (agenda item 9b): Motion to approve; mover: Jen; second: Jenna; outcome: approved (voice vote recorded as "Aye; Opposed? Motion carries"). - Resolution appointing election judges for 11/04/2025 special election (agenda item 9c): Motion to approve; mover: Gina; second: Jen; outcome: approved (roll call recorded: Dylan: yes; Jen: yes; Melissa: yes; Jenna: yes; Gina: yes; additional board member: yes). - Approval of proposed property tax levy (agenda item 9e): Motion to approve maximum levy amount; mover: Jen; second: Melissa; outcome: approved (voice vote recorded as "Aye; Opposed? Motion carries").
Why it matters: The operating levy is intended to cover recurring operating expenses the district says are not fully met by state aid, including a gap in special-education funding the board described as a significant local cost. Approving election administration and judges sets the logistics for the referendum.
What the board did next: The board asked staff to continue putting common questions on the referendum microsite and to assist residents who request ballot applications or more detail about the levy math. The board also thanked district staff coordinating election tasks.
Short-term follow-up: Early voting is already open; residents who need a ballot application were told the district can assist with submission to the county. The special election is scheduled for Nov. 4, 2025.
