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After levy loss, resident urges clearer outreach as treasurer warns of cash shortfall
Summary
A resident urged better communication after a failed 1.5% income tax levy. The treasurer told the board a large taxpayer paid late and the county auditor will advance about $700,000; presenters emphasized the need for a 60-day cash reserve and approved a $15,000 transfer for turf replacement.
A community speaker and district finance staff used the Madison Local Board of Education meeting to press for clearer communication about a failed 1.5% income tax levy and to highlight immediate budget pressures from a late tax payment by a large property owner.
Scott Washburn, a resident who identified himself and his street address to the board, said the narrow defeat of last week’s levy was “disappointing” but argued that the outcome reflected voter questions and misinformation rather than an absence of support. “People deserve facts, specifics, and open dialogue,” Washburn said, urging the district to do more to reach voters beyond social media headlines.
Treasurer-level presenters told the board that one of the district’s largest taxpayers—holding roughly 2.3% of the district’s valuation—paid late this tax season, creating a shortfall in the expected settlement. The county auditor has agreed to advance approximately $700,000 into the current fiscal year so the district will have cash on hand before year-end, the treasurer said. The presentation stressed why the district aims to maintain about 60 days of cash-on-hand: a single late payment can consume several days’ reserves and push a district into a short-term negative balance.
The treasurer also walked through the district forecast, noting that while revenues and expenditures are both close to prior forecasts, expenditures are rising faster than revenues and the district may need a precautionary written plan later this summer outlining cuts or other actions if projections worsen. As part of routine business, the board approved a transfer of $15,000 from the general fund to a restricted fund to accumulate for future turf replacement.
Superintendent Peterson and staff said they will schedule work sessions to discuss strategic planning and any future levy timing should the district pursue a new measure. No specific new levy proposal was introduced at the meeting.
