Mukwonago board adopts 2024–25 tax levy and budget; administrators highlight voucher costs

The Mukwonago School District board voted Oct. 28 to adopt the district’s 2024–25 tax levy and to approve the 2024–25 budget after presentations from district staff on revenue, levy components and program funding.

Tom, a district staff presenter, said the proposed levy “has not changed” since it was discussed in August and at the annual meeting and presented a total levy of $32,311,580. He explained that the district’s mill rate reflects operating needs, referendum debt and smaller levies for community education and voucher students; the presenter highlighted rising voucher-related levy adjustments in neighboring districts and noted voucher costs are not within the board’s control.

On the levy, the board moved and seconded the measure and adopted it by roll-call vote. The minutes show the following members recorded as voting yes: Mike, Jake, Gail, Dale, Eric, Vito, Caryn, Craig and Crosby.

The board then considered the 2024–25 budget. Staff summarized that total anticipated revenues were about $89.8 million and budgeted expenditures about $95.9 million, and described larger capital/maintenance needs in fund 46, including roof work at the high school and Claran. After questions, the board approved the budget by roll-call vote with the same members voting yes.

Board members asked about equalization aid and the district’s comparative mill rate; district staff noted the levy represents a roughly 0.5% decrease from last year and pointed to state-level school levy tax credits that will reduce individual K–12 tax impact for many residents.

Both actions were carried at the meeting and recorded in the board minutes; no amendments or failed motions were reported.