COST & TAX IMPACT
Strong Schools, Significant State Aid and Minimal Tax Impact
The proposed operating levy is designed to bring more state funding into WHA Schools while limiting the local tax impact. Under Question 1, year-round homes and seasonal properties would see no increase in property taxes. Question 2 would not increase taxes on seasonal properties, but 50% of the taxes would be covered by state aid, so a $400,000 year-round home would see an estimated increase of about $4 per month, or $49 per year.
QUESTION 1:
Question 1 would authorize a $1,847 per pupil operating levy and allow the district to access state aid, totaling $637,000, through the Seasonal Tax Base Replacement Aid program. The district has committed to reducing other local levies, so taxpayers will not see an increase if Question 1 passes.
QUESTION 2:
Question 2 would authorize an additional $553 per pupil operating levy if Question 1 is approved, bringing total revenue to just over $1 million with about $825,000 from state aid.
How the State Aid Program Works
Seasonal Tax Base Replacement Aid (STBRA) is a Minnesota funding program designed to help school districts with large numbers of seasonal recreational properties, such as cabins and vacation homes. Because seasonal recreational properties are exempt from operating levy taxes and instead contribute to the state's General Fund, STBRA allows eligible districts to receive additional state aid tied to operating levy revenue. If voters approve an operating levy, WHA Schools is eligible to receive state aid totaling more than 50%.
Estimated Tax Impact
Your individual tax impact will depend on the value of the property you own. If both questions pass, the estimated tax impact on a typical $400,000 home would be about $4 per month, or $49 per year.
Taxes on seasonal recreational properties would remain unchanged.
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BENEFITS
$637,000 in new state funding through Question 1 with no increase in property taxes for homeowners, businesses or seasonal properties.
Up to $1 million in new annual revenue for the next ten years if both questions pass, with most of the funding coming from the state.
Protection of key student programs and services, including academic support, career and technical education and college-level opportunities.
Greater long-term financial stability to address ongoing budget deficits.
A sustainable funding solution that keeps WHA strong for current and future students.