Votes on operating levy, bonding for Esko schools

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The Esko school district has two questions on the Nov. 6 ballot, seeking approval for an operating levy and to borrow up to $2.7 million for school facilities.

With no current operating levy, the district is asking voters to boost spending by $341 per pupil, allowing the district to maintain class sizes at current levels and restore industrial technology.

The $2.7 million bonding referendum also would provide new soccer and football fields, bleacher seating for 1,000, lights for the field, concession stands and other upgrades.

The owner of a $150,000 home would pay an additional $106.44 per year for the operating levy and $34.92 per year to upgrade the athletic facilities.

The district is among only about 10 percent in the state with no operating levy.

An identical levy failed last year, prompting the School Board to make $90,000 in budget cuts. A $6.7 million facilities referendum failed three years ago.

The June flood prompted renewed interest in another attempt at a referendum, when the surging Midway River left water chest-deep at the 50-yard line of the football field, causing additional damage to the sports facilities beyond the already failed lights and condemned bleachers.

Tags: carlton county, news, elections, esko, education