Minneapolis schools to ask voters for $60 million

Confronted with steep cuts in state funding and trying to hold class sizes, the district looks to go to the voters again.

By TERRY COLLINS, Star Tribune

Last update: May 13, 2008 - 11:46 PM

The Minneapolis school board adopted a resolution Tuesday asking voters to approve a $60 million measure this fall that would double the current excess levy, the portion of school property taxes on which taxpayers have a say.

Board members approved the resolution unanimously. The money would be used to maintain current average class sizes -- 26 for grades K-3 and 32 for other grades -- and pay for other key initiatives, such as the oft-discussed Strategic Plan.

"If we're really going to create quality programs and improved student achievement, we need the funds," school board Chairwoman Lydia Lee said. "Otherwise, we can't deliver."

If approved, the measure would provide money beginning in the 2009-10 school year and would run for eight years. The district would also hire an independent auditor to monitor use of the funding.

On Monday, Board Member Pam Costain told the district's parents advisory committee that the new proposal would cost Minneapolis homeowners an extra $17 month for the excess levy on a home valued at $256,000. Minneapolis homeowners currently pay $15 a month for the excess levy that expires next year.

Superintendent Bill Green said there is "a sense of optimism," from citizens to civic leaders alike.

The current annual levy supplies $27 million to $29 million of the district's general fund.

City voters have consistently backed the excess levy in referendums since 1990.

In 2000, a $42 million excess levy was approved by more than 70 percent of voters on the promise of lower class size. The increase took effect two years later.

Yet, class sizes increased. Millions in state funding was slashed. Several schools have been closed and scores of teachers have been laid off. The district has also seen its enrollment decline by nearly 30 percent.

Supporters of the effort say their soon-to-be released poll strongly suggests many in their corner.

The public can learn more about the proposal during a presentation at 7 tonight at Burroughs Elementary School, 1601 W. 50th St., in Minneapolis.

Terry Collins • 612-673-1790