One notable issue during the meeting was a petition presented by a district representative, supported by 131 other taxpayers, calling for a special election on levy dollar approval. Citing Minnesota statute 205A.05, the petition emphasized the legal requirement for a voter-approved special election on school district matters. The representative stressed the urgency of submitting the request to the county auditor to ensure the election is included on the November 5, 2024, ballot, highlighting that delaying might increase costs for district members and taxpayers. The board acknowledged the petition but did not take immediate action.

Following this, the board focused on the upcoming school board election. A motion was introduced to establish the timeline for filing affidavits of candidacy, starting on July 30, 2024, and closing on August 13, 2024. The clerk will publish the filing information in the district’s official newspaper at least two weeks before the period opens and post notices at administrative offices. The election will coincide with the state general election, with three board members to be elected for four-year terms. The resolution for the election was unanimously approved.

In financial matters, the board reviewed the long-term facility maintenance 10-year plan, a requirement from the Minnesota Department of Education. The plan includes revenue projections based on adjusted daily membership counts and outlines future budget impacts. Planned projects were discussed, such as boiler replacement and carpet updates, with funds allocated for roofing projects in future years. This comprehensive plan aims to ensure the district’s facilities remain functional and up to standard.

Superintendent Dr. Kristine J. Wehrkamp Herman reported on the strategic planning committee’s progress. The transition from CMD to Region One was noted as smooth, and the business manager provided updates on the fiscal year 2024 budget. Enrollment figures remained stable at 9110 students, and the general fund’s revenues and expenditures were on track with the revised budget at approximately 86%. The business manager anticipated a clearer fiscal outlook in the coming weeks.

A discussion revolved around a proposal from K2 Towers to extend their agreement for a communication tower near the school’s football field by an additional 30 years. The board was cautious, as K2 Towers currently has no renters, and concerns were raised about the long-term commitment without guaranteed income. The board considered future technology developments and local broadband initiatives that could utilize the tower, leading to further deliberation on whether to continue or revise the agreement.

The meeting also included the approval of a volleyball fundraising initiative. The activities director detailed a cookie dough sale aimed at supporting team bonding and fulfilling equipment needs not covered by the budget. The fundraiser will include a promotional video and a primary fundraising hour set for August 22nd, receiving unanimous board approval.

Additionally, the board reviewed a resolution for accepting donations, acknowledging contributions from the Township of Langola and an anonymous donor. The total donations included $578 for the elementary school playground, $1,000 for the care closet, and $400 for preschool and kindergarten classes. The board expressed gratitude for these contributions, recognizing their significance to the school community.

Policy matters were also on the agenda, with a first reading of several policies concerning internet use, transportation, and student attendance. Progress on policy 902 was acknowledged, with expectations for finalization in the upcoming August meeting. Third readings of policies related to student attendance and inventory management were approved without opposition.