A major focus of the meeting was the Truth and Taxation session, where the board reviewed and certified the property tax levy for the 2025 fiscal year. The levy amount was slightly adjusted from earlier figures due to a lease modification, resulting in a final certification of $1,257,748.83. The preliminary budget for 2024-2025 anticipates a decrease in expenses by 3.64% to $5,343,767 compared to the previous year. Sharon, a speaker at the meeting, explained that the district’s general fund revenue is projected to be around $4.65 million, with the majority sourced from state aids. Notably, 55% of the general fund budget is allocated to direct instruction, covering both general and special education.

The board also discussed the importance of long-term planning, emphasizing a ten-year maintenance plan to manage the district’s facilities effectively. Despite the opportunity for public input during the levy discussion, no comments were received, and the board unanimously approved the levy.

In celebratory news, the board recognized Cam Hungerholt’s achievement in being named Minnesota Mr. Football, the first such accolade for Leroy-Ostrander Athletics. This achievement was highlighted as a point of pride for the school community.

Attention then turned to the school facilities, with particular concern over the condition of the pool area. Efforts to address these challenges included scheduling a contractor to clean the pool and its surrounding areas. The board discussed initiatives to increase pool usage, including organizing events like “movie bonay” nights and water aerobics classes. Safety measures at the pool have been reinforced, with new rules mandating that children under ten be accompanied by an adult and requiring life jackets for inexperienced swimmers.

Kristen Stevens, the new pool manager, provided updates on her initiatives to boost revenue and enhance pool operations. She expressed gratitude to her mentor and outlined plans for swimming lessons and family membership packages, which have already garnered interest from the community. Her report underscored the collaborative efforts with other school departments to support pool programs.

The meeting also covered administrative matters, including the adjustment of the regular meeting agenda to defer discussions on administrative contracts. This decision reflected ongoing questions and the need for further committee review. Additionally, the board reviewed consent agenda items, which included financial matters and personnel changes, such as the hiring of a part-time school nurse. These items were approved without further discussion.

Policy reviews were another key topic, with the board conducting second readings of several policies. No changes were made since the first review, and the policies were approved unanimously. First readings of additional policies were also presented, and these were similarly approved without amendments.

The school district calendar was discussed, with proposed changes noted, especially concerning snow makeup days and a significant musical event scheduled for March 10th. The board emphasized the need for approval of any future calendar modifications to ensure smooth operations.

Finally, the board examined a resolution related to Minnesota statute 205 A.1, which permits school districts to combine polling places for elections. This measure aims to streamline election processes and accommodate unforeseen changes in polling locations. The board expressed understanding of the resolution’s implications and its potential benefits for future elections.