Winona school board approves 2027 operating, capital and debt levies

The Winona Area Public School District board voted to approve the district—s 2027 operating capital budget, the 2027 capital projects levy and related debt service funds following a presentation on the timeline and revenue assumptions.

Director Slavi outlined the budget framework, saying the expenditure budget "is based on the 2027 principal and interest payments" and that revenue "is directly related to the levy that was just approved by the board back in December," with state aids credited to offset some debt service. He described servicing costs tied to bond payments and noted changes to capital project line items, including replacing an Identisys door access system with Paxton, which removed a $1,000 support expense.

Chair moved the operating capital budget and, after a second, Casey conducted a roll-call vote. Members recorded unanimous "Yes" votes from those listed on the roll call. The board then separately approved the capital projects levy and the district's LTFM proposal for 2027 by roll call.

The board treated the budget and levy items as action votes after receiving the briefing materials. Director Slavi said the debt service and capital funds are "really pretty straightforward" and that the district allocates interest and ties revenues to the levy structure and state aid credits. No amendments or substantive debate were recorded on the floor.

The approvals set levy- and bond-related revenue and spending assumptions that will inform the district—s fiscal year 2027 planning and reporting. The board scheduled an April 9 work session on budget development to review further details.