Dear Neighbors and Friends,
Education plays a vital role in our communities helping equip our youth with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful future. Here in Lakeville, in addition to loving and supportive parents, we are lucky to have some of the best schools in the state thanks to the countless teachers, administrators, and staff that have dedicated their professional lives to educating the next generation. Thank you for all you do in our community.
I supported and the legislature made significant investments in our schools during this year’s legislative session and every year I have served. This year included $388.815 million for a 2 percent and 2 percent increase for per-pupil formula, $90.691 million for special education cross-subsidy reductions, $46.786 million to maintain Voluntary Pre-K and School Readiness Plus for two more years, and one-time funding of $30 million for school safety upgrades.
When taken together, Lakeville Public Schools will see a state funding increase of $7.1 million in 2020-2021 thanks to these investments.
SChool Levy Referendum
Tomorrow, November 5th, there will be two ballot questions for Lakeville voters to consider when they head to the polls. There are also ballot questions in the Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan district. While state funding is significant and over 17% of the state general fund, local school districts also use property tax revenue for local funding.
The Lakeville School District is proposing (question 1) a 10-year, $4.27 million annual operating levy and (question 2) a $42.9 million capital building bond that would be paid back over 13 years. Combined the tax impact (cost) for a median price home of $370,000 is $228 per year.
The school district has additional information on their website: https://isd194.org/ourfuture/.
Most of the polling locations are the same as general elections, but you can confirm your location here: https://pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/
I encourage everyone to become familiarized with the proposed levy and bond initiatives and to make sure and vote on November 5th.
It is an honor and privilege to represent you and your family in St. Paul. Please continue to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns related to state government.
Sincerely,
Representative Jon Koznick
Assistant Minority Leader