Board approves preliminary levy at maximum to allow final adjustments before certification

The Independent School District 279 board voted 6–0 to approve the 2024 payable 2025 preliminary levy at the maximum to allow staff and the Minnesota Department of Education to finalize daily levy runs. John Morstead, the finance director, explained the levy process and components—voter‑approved referendum, local optional revenue, capital projects levy, long‑term facility maintenance, and debt service—and the reasons for requesting approval at the maximum. "We are going to request that the school board approve the '24 pay '25 levy at the maximum," Morstead said, adding that final dollar amounts will be returned to the board in December.

Board members asked clarifying questions about per‑pupil calculations and levy mechanics; Morstead said the voter‑approved operating referendum equates to about $2,177.21 per pupil in current calculations and explained how adjusted pupil units and net tax capacity affect levy lines. The board will hold a truth‑in‑taxation hearing and certify final levy amounts at the Dec. 17 meeting.