To the Editor:

I am a member of the MCW CARE Committee.

MCW CARE is dedicated to informing voters about the upcoming MCW Bond Referendum. We are advocating for an alternative bond referendum that reflects the unique needs of every town within our community, fostering unity among all stakeholders. CARE has also requested the school district perform an unbiased, comprehensive feasibility study. This study would provide a clearer recommendation and ensure transparency.

CARE has held four community meetings in Trimont, Sherburn, Welcome, and Dunnell. The data presented was sourced directly from the school district and the Minnesota Department of Education. For those who could not attend the meetings, the key takeaways are:

1. Economic Climate: Inflation in core categories; seniors living on a fixed income.

2. Area Projects: City of Trimont Sewer Project, City of Dunnell Water Project, Martin County Law Enforcement Center will all add to taxes.

3. The MCW School District WILL NOT CLOSE if the referendum does not pass. The school district has not yet reached the limit in its unassigned fund balance.

4. Building Size: Although the proposal of one building decreases the present total square footage, it is larger than the size recommended by the Minnesota Department of Education based on projected enrollment numbers.

5. District Overspending: In the last three years, the district has not performed any major budget cuts to offset the overspending.

6. Declining Enrollment: The current enrollment reported at the last school board meeting is 631, with a projection of 576 in 2029-2030 school year.

7. MCW still owes over $7 million for the 2015 HVAC project

8. With interest the total cost of the bond referendum will be over $120 million.

9. The Ag2School Tax Credit is not guaranteed. It can be increased, decreased, or completely go away.

CARE’s advocation for a “no” vote stems from these key takeaways. Opting for a “no” vote urges the school board to develop a better plan. MCW CARE supports the Martin County West School District and recognizes the need for improvement in our facilities. However, CARE believes some other options and approaches need to be explored.

Mary Johnson

Sherburn