Investing in Albert Lea’s Future

September 5, 2006 on 8:58 pm | In News

This November Albert Lea residents will have the opportunity to vote on a referendum to stabilize District 241 education funding. It will allow District 241 to maintain the necessary pieces required to continue educating students at its current level.

According to a fact sheet distributed by District 241:

State funding does not provide our commuity with the kind of school system we want and need. Because state funding was frozen for two years, our district did not receive $1.6 million in funding. To maintain the level and quality of education currently offered, including one mile bus service, all-day kindergarten, smaller class sizes, electives, fine arts and athletic opportunities, the district must replace the current opperating levy.

Over the years, the district has diligently adjusted its budget in order to allow for reductions in the state’s funding of Albert Lea’s schools. District 241’s fact sheet continues:

Over the past 15 years nearly $7 million has been cut. The cuts included the elimination of many teaching positions, administration, clerical, and custodial staff. In order to maintain a quality education for our students, we cannot cut valuable teaching talent and educational opportunites for our children.

Below is the “Estimated Tax Impact of the Approval of the Property Levy”

Market Value of Home	Revoked Authority $497.97	Proposed Authority $957.87	Net Change $460.00	Monthly Tax Impact
50,000	-49.00	113.00	64.00	5.34
70,000	-68.00	159.00	91.00	7.59
100,000	-98.00	227.00	129.00	10.75
150,000	-147.00	340.00	193.00	16.09
175,000	-171.00	397.00	226.00	18.84
250,000	-244.00	567.00	323.00	26.92

Your contribution will make a HUGE difference in the future of Albert Lea and the future of Albert Lea’s students, teachers, staff, and all who want Albert Lea’s educational system to remain strong for years to come.