Caledonia board backs renewal of operating referendum at $460 per student; directs two-question facility review

The Caledonia Public School District school board voted to renew the district's expiring operating referendum at $460 per student for five years and separately directed staff to prepare and submit a two-question facility-planning review for the ballot.

During discussion of the renewal, a board member noted the $460-per-pupil figure and that the five-year proposal could be followed later by a request for a higher levy if needed. After brief comments about public timing and clarity, Derek moved to approve the resolution; the motion was seconded and the chair recorded the motion carried with six votes.

On facility planning, board members debated whether to proceed with a two-question approach on the ballot or delay. Derek moved to direct the review and comment submission for the two questions as discussed; Lee seconded and the motion carried, recorded in the transcript as a 5-0 vote.

What the votes mean: The operating referendum renewal had a formal motion and recorded passage; the public-facing referendum language and exact ballot timing were not spelled out in the meeting record. The two-question facility review was authorized for submission and further review; the transcript does not include the exact text of the two questions.

Votes at a glance: - Renew operating referendum at $460 per student for five years: mover Derek; second Mike; recorded as carried (6 yes). Details on ballot language and election date not specified in the meeting. - Direct submission of two-question facility review: mover Derek; second Lee; recorded as carried (5-0). Exact question wording not recorded.

Next steps: administrative staff will prepare the referendum materials and the two-question submission for the planned review and public process; timing and final ballot language will be determined outside the public meeting.