The centerpiece of the July 21, 2025 meeting was the approval of the LTFM ten-year plan. This plan, essential for maintaining the district’s infrastructure, projects an increase in revenues from $1.4 million in 2025 to $2.1 million by 2035. Discussion highlighted the plan’s focus on health and safety projects and major repairs, with annual allocations of approximately $105,000 for health and safety and $425,000 for major repairs. Board members acknowledged the statutory restrictions that earmark these funds solely for maintenance and cannot be diverted to other operational costs, a point that often requires clarification for community members questioning large expenditures like roofing or HVAC overhauls.

The board emphasized the importance of balancing immediate maintenance needs with long-term investments. The finance committee plays a critical role in determining project eligibility, aligning plans with strategic goals. The plan’s approval was necessary to meet the submission deadline to the Minnesota Department of Education, and the motion to approve was passed unanimously.

Budget performance was another major topic, with a report indicating 98% of total operating expenditures had been utilized, while revenues were at 90.2%. A positive variance of approximately $475,000 in expenditures was noted, though some expenses remain pending. Concerns were raised about state aid, with projections suggesting a slight under-budget result, although local revenues exceeded expectations. Salaries and wages were closely aligned with projections, while slight overages in equipment and extracurricular activities were attributed to increased participation.

The meeting also addressed staffing changes, introducing a new all-staff handbook designed to unify existing handbooks across various staff groups. The comprehensive document aims to streamline information on procedures and benefits and was developed with input from numerous stakeholders. The handbook, available online but not on the main website, was approved unanimously.

Additionally, the meeting welcomed the new superintendent and the new principal of the intermediate school, expressing optimism for the upcoming school year. The board assigned a proxy to the superintendent for accessing state records and handling administrative tasks, appointing the administrative assistant as the proxy based on past practices in other districts.

The ongoing maintenance and repair of school facilities featured prominently, with discussions on the repair needs of vintage equipment, such as a 1968 Chrysler alternator and the air conditioning system at RT Elementary. The board praised a technician for his expertise in managing these repairs and emphasized finding durable solutions instead of temporary fixes.

The meeting concluded with community-focused updates, including preparations for the Gilman Days celebration, involving softball tournaments and a parade with the school’s marching band. The board recognized the band’s impressive performance, despite its smaller size, and appreciated the instructors’ contributions. The retirement of an 82-year-old marathon runner who completed 519 marathons was also commemorated.