Southern Wisconsin Times

The Janesville Board of Education voted unanimously on Tuesday to place two referendum questions on the November 5, 2024 ballot, following community survey feedback.

The first question seeks voter approval to renew a $14.5 million non-recurring, two-year operational referendum initially approved in 2020. This renewal would extend the referendum's expiration date from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2027. If renewed, taxpayers are not expected to see an increase over the current mill rate portion attributed to the school district. The funds generated would support small class sizes at transitional grade levels, investments in classroom technology and infrastructure, staff retention and attraction efforts, and curriculum resources.

The second question is a capital referendum asking for up to $151.8 million to address prioritized facility needs within the district. Approval would initiate the first phase of a long-term facilities plan. This phase includes $124.5 million for high-priority capital maintenance repairs or replacements, $11.1 million for safety and security enhancements, and $16.2 million for special education space improvements. Community engagement led to setting this amount lower than initially considered.

The capital referendum would result in a property tax impact of $81 per every $100,000 of assessed fair market property value. A home valued at $300,000 would incur an annual property tax impact of $243 (or $20.25 per month), beginning in the 2025-26 school year.

Both measures arise from inadequate state funding increases in recent years alongside rising expenses and inflationary pressures. Additionally, there is an increasing need for mental health and special education services while addressing significant facility needs across the district.

“While the School District of Janesville is a big source of pride in our community, our district has operational and facility needs that require the attention of all district residents,” said Superintendent Mark Holzman. “District leaders and the Board of Education believe the time has come to address these needs in a comprehensive manner aligned with our strategic plan. We look to position our schools and students for success now and in the years ahead.”

In upcoming months, district leaders will engage with community members and taxpayers to discuss the district’s needs and proposed solutions presented on the November ballot.

For more information about these measures or other details regarding Janesville schools' facilities needs visit www.bit.ly/sdjfacilityneeds.