Greenfield school referenda: What to know about the 2 questions ahead of Nov. 3 vote
Reported byWUWMBy Katherine Kokal
AI-assisted summary
Voters in the Greenfield School District in Wisconsin will decide two separate referendum questions on the Nov. 3 ballot. Together they total $55 million, to be raised through property taxes. Early in-person absentee voting starts Oct. 20 at Greenfield City Hall, and all registered voters in Greenfield can take part.
The first question is an operational referendum. It would let the district exceed its state revenue limit by $5 million a year for four years, starting in 2027-28, for $20 million overall. It would continue a referendum voters approved in 2022 that is expiring, so it would not raise tax rates further. The district and supporters say the money would help maintain class sizes, instructional programs, staff recruitment and retention, mental health supports, technology and transportation. The district says a no vote would bring a slight tax decrease, and it may have to consider cutting staff, raising class sizes, shrinking programs and replacing technology less often.
The second question would authorize up to $35 million in bonds in one year for facilities work, including HVAC, electrical and ventilation systems, roofs, security cameras, fire doors and parking areas. It would set aside $3.5 million for the performing arts center, pool, tennis courts and track and field. It would add $9 in property taxes per $100,000 of property value. If it fails, the district says it would not take on these projects. The district enrolls about 3,300 students.
Why it matters
The votes affect local property tax bills and decide whether the district keeps current staffing and programs and funds building upgrades. The article places the measures within statewide referendum activity tied to state revenue limits that the district says have not kept pace with costs.
- Operating referendum
- Bond measure
- Property taxes
- State funding formula
- Building repairs
- Heat and air conditioning
Written with AI from the publisher's article and may contain errors. The original reporting is the authoritative source.
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- How should voters weigh the district's stated operating needs against the tax effects of each question?
- What information would help residents judge the facilities projects and their timing?
- How can the district and community discuss the tradeoffs if either question does not pass?
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