The meeting began with a “Mission Moment” led by Superintendent Jeff Elstad, who introduced a segment to honor Owatonna High School students who excelled in the Spring Sports State Championships. Six state champions were recognized, starting with the 4×200 relay team. Juniors Nolan Ginsky and Luke Weber, along with teammates Garrett Carsten and Kenan Larson, a recent graduate, achieved a Class 3A Championship time of 1 minute 26.52 seconds. This performance set a school record, a Big Nine Conference record, and tied for the fastest time ever recorded in Minnesota. Seth Johnson was also honored for winning the 110-meter high hurdles with a time of 13.98 seconds and placing fifth in the 300-meter hurdles. Additionally, Carmen Jley, a sophomore, was recognized for winning the Class AAA girls golf state tournament, shooting a score of 142, two under par, and winning by one stroke. Superintendent Elstad emphasized the pride these athletes brought to their school and acknowledged the support from their coaches and parents.

Following the recognition segment, the meeting moved to the public forum where Maria Olinger, representing Open Owatonna, addressed the board. She discussed the group’s efforts in promoting educational integrity by distributing questionnaires to school board candidates. Olinger reported that all candidates from last year’s campaign responded, and this year, five of the eight candidates had already replied. She emphasized the value of this information to the community, and the board expressed appreciation for her efforts.

The board then reviewed the enrollment report, which revealed no concerning data, much to the relief of its members. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing a proposed tax increment financing (TIF) project from the City of Owatonna. This project involves a request for TIF funding for a new development of 74 rental housing units on Hillcrest Avenue Southeast. Superintendent Elstad provided an overview, explaining that while the board did not need to take action, the decision would be made by the city council. The TIF request was noted as modest in financial implications, with a 25-year duration extending to fiscal year 2052.

Board members provided updates on various forums and meetings. A facilities update detailed progress on the new district office located in the old high school. Kraus Anderson reported that most exterior work was completed, with only a few items remaining on the punch list. The anticipated move to the new office was set for the week of October 14th, and landscaping was scheduled to begin. The completion of the new office building was expected in January, with additional concrete and paving work planned for spring 2025. Plans for a 40×80-foot shed on the west side of the football stands were also discussed, with bids due that week.

In other business, the board discussed upcoming homecoming events. There was a call for truck drivers for homecoming activities, with the assurance that trucks would be provided. A visit to Lincoln School was highlighted, where board members were impressed by the positive environment and the new principal, Justin Lang, who discussed the Read Act. It was noted that many faculty members at Lincoln are Owatonna High School graduates, fostering a sense of community pride.

The board reviewed several policy revisions, focusing on the second of three policies that clarified students’ First Amendment rights, including electronic media. An update on Owatonna’s involvement with Schools Advocating for Fair Funding (SAF) was provided, emphasizing the organization’s role in achieving tax equity for property-poor districts.

A preliminary tax levy certification was introduced. The board discussed the anticipated 4.99% increase in the overall levy, contrasting it with previous years’ increases. Despite the increase, many property owners might see a decrease in their school tax portion due to an expanded tax base. Approval of the levy at its maximum amount was recommended by the Minnesota Department of Education to allow for minor corrections before final approval in December.