The approval of a $6.65 million bond sale was a focal point of the meeting. The board was presented with a comprehensive finance plan by representatives from PTMA, who congratulated the board on the successful referendum vote that paved the way for the bond sale. The bond, set to be sold on January 7, with funds expected by February 4, will be used for school building projects. The sale is structured over a 20-year period, with anticipated savings due to favorable market conditions. Additionally, the plan includes a proposal to combine the new bond issue with a refunding of existing bonds, projecting modest savings of $54,000 for taxpayers. The board was briefed on the parameters for the bond sale, including a maximum true interest rate of 5% and a total amount not exceeding $6.65 million.

In conjunction with the bond sale, the board also approved a series of construction contracts. The meeting involved representatives from ICS, who provided an overview of the construction recommendation packet. Approximately 15 bids were received for the project, with the board emphasizing the importance of accepting these bids promptly to avoid potential setbacks or increased costs. The necessity of aligning construction costs with the budget through value engineering—estimated at $1.1 million—was stressed, with the goal of maintaining project integrity despite higher initial bids.

The meeting also covered the approval of an amendment to the existing professional services agreement with ICS. This amendment was necessary due to a voter-approved referendum and aimed to add scope to the original contracts without altering existing terms. The construction timeline is set to begin in spring 2027 and conclude by fall of the same year. The board confirmed that the additional scope would not delay the project beyond the established timeline.

Beyond financial deliberations, the board discussed the upcoming truth and taxation presentation, a statutory requirement to allow public inquiry into the district’s levy and budget. The business manager, Teresa, detailed the procedural requirements and timeline for property tax statements and the levy cycle, emphasizing transparency in the process. The board was informed of an 11% increase in the total property tax levy year-over-year, largely attributed to voter-approved referendums, which now account for 84% of the district’s funding. A detailed breakdown of property tax calculations was provided, highlighting the district’s relatively favorable tax position compared to neighboring districts.

Notably, the meeting included updates from Superintendent Chris Lindholm on staff changes and ongoing projects. The district plans to collaborate with staff to apply for a grant from the Minnesota Department of Education to support Ojibway language and culture revitalization efforts at Sawtooth Mountain Elementary. New staff hires were announced, including Caressa England, who will replace the retiring administrative assistant, and new contracts with Northshore Health for in-person occupational and physical therapy services.

Additional discussions highlighted concerns over budget deficits, specifically with respect to technology and bus purchases. The district is managing costs by purchasing buses in smaller quantities, despite significant price increases. A recent acquisition of a newer bus requiring repairs was mentioned, emphasizing the need for a second bus equipped with a lift for accessibility.

In student-related updates, the board acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing student school board member, Miss Greta Young, who shared her reflections on school events and her future aspirations. The board also celebrated ongoing school activities, including winter sports and festive events, such as a movie day with hot chocolate planned for December 23rd.