Lakeville Levy Podcast 2025

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Areas of Interest (5)

Lakeville Area Schools seeks to renew a 2015 capital projects levy without raising tax rates.
The district faces a potential $4 million budget cut for the 2026-27 school year if the levy fails.
Board members argue that school quality is a primary driver of local property values and home sales.
State per-pupil funding increases of 2.7% are failing to keep pace with inflation, forcing district reliance on local levies.
The levy funds 78% for technology, 17% for STEM programs, and 5% for security infrastructure.

This is a renewal as you noted, which means there's no tax increase to our community.
— Carly Anderson

Levy DetailsExplaining the financial nature of the levy to residents.

If we were to lose these funds, we would have to cut $4 million from our budget for the 26-27 school year.
— Matt Swanson

Budget/LevyWarning about the consequences of the levy failing.

I think this year we're currently on pace for being the number one fastest growing city in the state.
— Matt Swanson

District GrowthDescribing district growth.

Matt SwansonSchool Board Member

Participating in a video discussion about the upcoming school levy renewal.

1 quote

“We are the only entity that has to go to the community for a vote to raise taxes.”

Discussing the unique financial position of the school district compared to city/county government.

Carly AndersonSchool Board Director

Co-hosting the information session on the levy renewal.

1 quote

“Strong schools make strong communities.”

Explaining the importance of school levies to residents without children in the district.

Lakeville Area SchoolsDistrict OfficeCherry View School