The referendum comprises two proposals. The first question seeks to generate an additional $575 per pupil in annual revenue starting in the 2026-2027 school year. This revenue would be used to sustain class sizes and ensure the continuation of high-quality academic programming. The second question, contingent on the first’s approval, requests $28 million for a variety of facility enhancements. These improvements include safety and security upgrades, infrastructure updates, and enhancements to athletic facilities, such as a new turf field and weight room.

The board stressed the importance of these measures, noting that inflation has outpaced funding and that the district is grappling with substantial increases in transportation costs, which have surged by 25% in recent years. Without the additional funding, the district anticipates potential increases in class sizes and cuts to specialty programs, as well as delays in necessary facility upgrades which could further strain district operations.

To inform the community and ensure transparency, the district has planned extensive outreach efforts. A dedicated election website will serve as the central hub for information, featuring detailed breakdowns of the referendum questions and a video explaining Minnesota school funding. In-person learning sessions, print mailers, and social media will also be used to engage residents. Early voting is set to begin on September 19th, with Washington County assisting in running the election.

Discussions during the meeting also covered the district’s strategic plan, which includes initiatives such as implementing new literacy curricula for K-5 students and expanding STEM, communications, theater, and digital arts programs at the middle school level. High school offerings are also being broadened to include personal finance, career and technical education (CTE), business, communications, and AVID courses.

The board detailed the financial context of the referendum, noting that budget adjustments totaling $2 million have already been made for the current school year, using one-time funds to avoid program cuts. A previous referendum in 2018 successfully delivered on promises to reduce class sizes and enhance academic programming, and the current proposal aims to continue building on that foundation.

The tax implications of the proposed measures were outlined, with an estimated impact of about $17 per month for the first question and approximately $15 per month for the second question on an average home valued at $500,000. Comparisons with neighboring districts’ operating referendum levels provided context for the financial challenges facing the Mahtomedi School District.

In addition to the referendum, the meeting addressed several financial issues, including a budget deficit and specific projects requiring funding. The district is facing additional costs, such as $102,000 in expenses not covered by grants, including engineering costs related to the Safe Routes to School initiative. A projected $25,000 cost for the upcoming November election, typically allocated back to the district by the county, was also noted.

The board discussed enrollment projections, emphasizing the need for more concrete data by October due to fluctuating enrollment numbers. The general fund balance is projected to be about $7.3 million, with an estimated ending fund balance just below $6.2 million after accounting for expenses and revenue decreases. The unassigned fund balance, representing over 9%, was highlighted as crucial for addressing budget deficits.

The approval of the 2025-2026 preliminary budget proceeded without debate. Additionally, a resolution was passed to cooperate with Washington County on constructing a walkway under the Safe Routes to School program, a step for enhancing student safety.