Big Lake Public School District presented a proposed 4.6% increase in its 2026 property tax levy at a public hearing, saying the package is intended to keep the district’s tax rate effectively constant while funding long‑term facilities maintenance, most notably roofing projects.

District presenter Angie opened the hearing and detailed how state formulas determine school revenue and levy limits. "This scenario keeps the district's tax rate constant," she said, describing a levy package that combines a LTFM (long‑term facilities maintenance) increase and offsets from debt service excess. Angie told attendees the LTFM portion of the levy would add "a little over $1,200,000" to fund health‑and‑safety work, deferred maintenance and roofing in 2026‑27, while a debt service excess reduction of about $505,000 partially offsets the total increase.

Why it matters: Minnesota law tightly regulates school funding, with state formulas setting most revenue. Staff said the district relies heavily on state aid and that local property valuations—which are set by county assessors and outside district control—drive much of the variation residents see on tax statements. Angie also warned that special education remains underfunded statewide and pointed to a state blue‑ribbon commission charged with finding $250,000,000 in savings by Oct. 1, 2026, a move that could increase local cost pressures if unresolved.

Presentation highlights included a review of the district’s fund structure (general, food service, community service, construction, debt service, OPEB/OPEB‑type trust), a reminder that the revised 25/26 budget was published in the Patriot newspaper as required, and an explanation that salaries and benefits represent just under 75% of district expenditures.

Participants asked whether the presentation materials would be posted online; staff confirmed they would. Residents also asked whether technology levies carry an inflation index and whether certain projects—such as track repairs—would be covered by lease levy authority; staff said technology levies are tied to net tax capacity (so revenue varies with assessed values) and that lease‑levy options had not been pursued because roofing must be completed first.

The board previously approved the proposed levy on Sept. 24, and Angie said the board will certify the final levy following the public hearing. The transcript does not record a formal certification vote during the portion provided.

The hearing included an offer for follow‑up contact and closed with adjournment. Residents were advised to consult tax advisers about relief programs such as the homestead credit refund, special property tax refunds, and senior deferrals if they think they may qualify.