Board certifies 2026 property tax levy after levy hearing; transcript records motion language verbatim
Summary
After a levy hearing outlining district funding trends and tax impacts, the board certified the property tax levy payable in 2026; the motion language in the transcript records the amount as "40,000,000 $285,592," which the board approved by voice vote. Administration explained state funding trends and levy mechanics.
The Farmington School Board held a Truth-in-Taxation hearing and then certified the district's property tax levy payable in 2026.
Director Houska presented background on school funding, noting the general-education formula has not kept pace with inflation and that special education remains underfunded relative to federal IDEA expectations. Houska illustrated district revenue and expenditure buckets, said roughly 80 percent of general-fund revenue comes from the state with local taxpayers providing about 18 percent, and explained how property-value changes and levy calculations affect individual tax bills.
Houska used illustrative examples to show how a rise in home values changes relative tax shares and reminded listeners that some homestead credits or tax deferrals may be available. She also explained the statutory roles of MDE, county auditors and the county in calculating and collecting levy amounts.
Following the presentation, a motion was made to certify the property tax levy payable 2026. The motion language in the transcript records the amount as "40,000,000 $285,592." The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote; the transcript records affirmative responses but does not record an exact numerical tally.
Reporting and next steps: The board certified the levy as moved; administrative staff will finalize documentation with county auditors following the statutory process. Director Houska invited taxpayers with questions to consult tax advisors regarding credits and deferrals. The district said it had received one phone call about the tax statement at the time of the meeting.
Note on transcript phrasing: The transcript records the motion language in a way that is likely a formatting error ("40,000,000 $285,592"). The motion language quoted above is presented verbatim from the meeting record; the official certified levy amount will be documented in the district's signed levy certification and county records.
