Levy for Learning

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2025

Jackson County Central School Board Votes to Move Forward with November Operating Referendum and Capital Projects Levy

Jackson, MN — At its regular meeting on July 28, the Jackson County Central (JCC) School Board voted to place two funding questions on the November 4, 2025, ballot: an increase to the district’s current operating referendum and the establishment of a new capital projects levy.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Mike Neubeck presented a detailed overview of the district’s financial landscape, current funding challenges, and community survey insights during the board’s deliberation.

Why the Referendum is Needed

JCC currently receives $460 per student through its existing operating referendum, generating approximately $$538,000 annually. Due to rising costs and inflation, the district faces a projected $700,000 budget deficit for the 2025–2026 school year which will lower the district’s overall fund balance percentage.

“Costs in health insurance, staffing, and legislative mandates are rising significantly faster than state funding,” said Dr. Neubeck. “The proposed referendum is about maintaining the quality of education and programming our community expects and deserves.”

Community Input Guided the Proposal

A recent community survey indicated that an additional $460 per student was unlikely to pass in its current form. However, the district believes a more modest increase paired with a capital projects levy would receive broader community support.

What’s on the Ballot?

The board approved placing two separate questions on the November ballot:

1. Operating Referendum
         -    Revoke current $460 per pupil

• Replace with $820 per pupil

• Term: 10 years

• Funds day-to-day operations such as teaching, staffing, academic programs, and services
  
  

2. Capital Projects Levy
         -    $250,000 annually

• Term: 10 years

• Funds facility upgrades, technology improvements, and safety enhancements (e.g., phone/PA system, security cameras, cybersecurity, curriculum resources)
  
  

Combined, the two measures would generate approximately $677,000 in new funding annually for the district.

Impact on Taxpayers

If approved, the increase would result in an estimated $119 per year for a property value of $200,000, a figure that remains below the regional average for school tax levies.

Fiscal Responsibility and Forward Planning

The district has carefully outlined how each dollar would be used. The capital levy, for instance, is expected to reduce general fund expenditures by at least $175,000 annually, freeing up resources for classroom instruction and core services.

Dr. Neubeck noted that while the measures won’t eliminate all future reductions, they will minimize the need for drastic cuts and allow the district to continue “right-sizing” strategically.

Communication is Important

The district is in the process of developing a dedicated website to provide detailed information about the November referendum questions. In addition, a communication channel will be established to allow community members to submit questions and receive timely responses. A series of in-person informational meetings will also be scheduled and widely publicized in the coming weeks to ensure transparency and community engagement.

Key Dates Moving Forward

August 4: Special Board Meeting to Approve Final Ballot Language
August 6: Submission of Review & Comment
August 12: Ballot Submission Deadline
November 4: Election Day

Jackson County Central Schools encourages all residents to learn more, ask questions, and stay informed in the months leading up to the election.