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Monticello schools outline levy impacts as committee backs principal for IEDC seat
Summary
Superintendent Eric Olson told the IEDC that the 2025 operating levy passed and will affect budgeting and bonding; the committee voted unanimously to recommend Monticello High School Principal Lori Hanson to fill Olson’s seat on the IEDC, pending City Council approval.
Eric Olson, superintendent of Monticello Public School District No. 882, told the Industrial & Economic Development Committee on March 3 that the district’s 2025 operating levy passed and is shaping next year’s budget and bonding plans. He said upcoming staff retirements and potential attrition are expected to factor into operational cost savings and complicate long‑range budgeting.
Olson introduced Monticello High School Principal Lori Hanson and suggested she join the IEDC as his replacement when he steps down in June. Hanson’s phased participation drew support from committee members who cited the value of stronger school–business connections for student career pathways. "I move to recommend Lori Hanson to serve on the IEDC beginning on May 5, 2026," said Joni Pawelk, who made the successful motion; Sarah Kortmansky seconded and all members voted in favor.
Members and staff highlighted existing employer–school partnerships that support career exposure and vocational training. Liz Kokesh, Cargill facility plant manager, described efforts to provide students with job‑shadowing and internships in areas such as mechanical repairs, school bus maintenance and a meat market kitchen. Eric Olson thanked local businesses for their involvement in literacy and career events.
City Administrator Rachel Leonard reminded the committee that recommendations for appointments will be forwarded to the City Council and take effect only after Council approval; the committee noted Hanson’s recommendation will become effective after that process if her application is received before the next Council meeting.
Votes at a glance
• Approval of minutes (Jan. 6, 2026): Motion by Aaron Holthaus, second by Andrew Tapper — passed unanimously (members present: 16). • Recommendation to appoint Lori Hanson to the IEDC beginning May 5, 2026: Motion by Joni Pawelk, second by Sarah Kortmansky — passed unanimously (members present: 16).
The committee’s discussion tied succession planning and the district’s post‑levy budgeting to ongoing efforts to prepare students for local workforce opportunities.
