The Kingsland School Board worked on deciding upon a new Operating Levy amount during their regular board meeting on August 20. All board members were present (Doug Plaehn, Ann Oeltjen, Heather Betts, Leah Stier, Jackie Horsman, Tiffany Mundfrom, and Superintendent James Hecimovich.
The board discussed possibly sending a two-question referendum to voters, with the first question essentially renewing the current amount, and the second asking for the increase needed. Tiffany Mundfrom asked, “Have we ever been able to pass a two-question measure?” Douh Plaehn said no, to which Horsman chuckled, “Well, thanks for your candor.” Mundfrom then said she prefers simply a one-question referendum, asking for the amount Kingsland truly needs; Horsman agreed.
The board discussed the balancing act of asking for enough to cover costs, without putting an unfair burden on taxpayers. Horsman stated, “It’s hard because what I think we all want, and what’s attainable, are two different things… And that’s what makes it difficult. First and foremost, you have to try to come up with something that you feel you can get the community to support.” After discussion, the board voted unanimously to accept the new operating levy amount of $1,042.
It was summarized that this amount represents roughly a 6% increase, which would create a tax impact of $106 on a $100,000 home. Plaehn pointed out that if Kingsland’s enrollment continues to dwindle in the coming years, expense reductions would be needed in addition to this levy amount.
The board approved the hiring of Jasper Hamersma (Elementary PLTW teacher), Morgan Howard (JH Volleyball coach), and Patricia DeYoung (Food Service). The board accepted resignations of Linda Boland (Food Service), Morgan Howard (JH Volleyball coach), and Belinda Klomps (Food Service). The board approved “lane changes” for Morgan Jacobson, Erin Milz, Aaron Thauwald, Laurie Hendrickson, Kevin Greer, and Christine Howard.
Superintendent Hecimovich gave public thanks to donations, including Valley Home Improvement (donation of four money aprons for use at events), custodial staff for their hard work in getting ready for the school year, and Liddle Remodeling Company for donation of leftover lumber to Kingsland’s construction crew.
Regarding the recent auction of Kingsland’s property in Wykoff, Hecimovich summarized, “Basically, the bus garage went for $75,000, the campus and building went for $27,500, and the contents a little over $23,000.” He added that due to abatement requirements, he is hoping to close in about four months with the purchaser of the building and campus. Hecimovich concluded, “And I’m very happy that the person that bought it really does care about the community,… and I think he’s going to work very closely with the city of Wykoff to make sure it’s used correctly. So I’m very excited.” He also stated that he would soon meet with city officials in Wykoff to take care of vacating Line Street.
Business Manager Amber Herbrand gave a financial update, adding that the annual audit was completed last week. The board voted to approve the Fuel Bid from Baudoin Oil Company, as well as the Milk Bid from Dean Foods. Hecimovich stated that the school year started smoothly, and “It’s great to have the kids back.” The next board meeting will be a “work session” on Tuesday, September 4, at 6 p.m. in the conference room. The next regular board meeting will be Monday, September 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the choir room. As always, the public is welcome.