School to float 16 mill technology levy
The fifth grade class at Ruder Elementary presented a performance of “Summer Camp Jazz” Wednesday. The district will float a levy aimed at addressing technology needs for the next 10 years at its elementary schools. (Jeremy Weber photo)
The School District 6 board Monday approved floating a 16 mill elementary levy for 10 years to pay for future technology needs in the district.
The levy, if passed by voters, would raise about $500,000 annually to allow the district to purchase and upgrade software and hardware at its elementary schools.
Currently the district spends more than $389,000 from its general fund for technology upgrades at both the elementary schools.
The levy would raise taxes on a $200,000 home by $43 a year. The board also approved a levy that doesn’t have to have voter approval under state law for transportation and other needs. That levy amounts to an additional tax increase on a $200,000 home by about $25 a year.
Combined, the levies would amount to a $68 annual school tax increase.
The board debated the levy amount. Board member Barb Riley said a 20 mill levy would have been more appropriate, noting that technology was an integral part of education today.
“You can’t buy a game for an XBox for $43 a year,” she said.
Board vice chair Dean Chisholm suggested a 15 mill levy. Chair Jill Rocksund then suggested a 16 mill levy and the board approved that measure.
The measure goes before voters on May 8.