Superintendent says funding shortfalls will force cuts, approves RFP to market Westwood building

The superintendent of Prior Lake‑Savage Area Schools told the community that the district is facing ongoing structural funding challenges and will pursue facility and budget measures to reduce costs.

"We have a funding formula in the state that I think dates back to 1972," the superintendent said, arguing the district will need legislative advocacy and local engagement to address revenue shortfalls. He said enrollment — a primary revenue driver — is flat or slightly declining, which tightens the district’s operating picture.

To offset future cuts, the superintendent said the board recently approved an RFP to hire a commercial broker to market the Westwood building as part of a site‑consolidation plan. "We just approved the RFP to go look for a commercial broker to be able to put this building that you're in onto the market," he said, and added that proceeds could be aligned to capital needs and potentially offset some operating reductions.

The superintendent outlined how the district plans to repurpose the Greenwood Building as an educational services center that would co‑occupy central office supports, special education programming and community education currently housed elsewhere. No vote tallies or formal motion text were provided in the presentation.

He urged community engagement as the district develops a legislative agenda to seek changes at the state level and reminded residents of a Nov. 4 special board election and upcoming community forums.

The district’s next steps include executing the RFP process, engaging potential buyers or partners for the Westwood property and continuing community outreach on budget priorities.