Politics
We are at a point in this legislative session where we need your advocacy. The legislature will be on break next week, and this provides the perfect opportunity to contact them about important bills that have recently passed the House and Senate. Next steps will include a Conference Committee to work out the minor details between variations of the bills, and then create consensus on bills that will be voted upon in the House and Senate. Once approved, the bills will be sent to the governor for his consideration.
One of our top priorities is the General Education Funding Formula. Currently the House version is at 1.25 percent each year and the Senate sits at 1.5 percent each year. The House and Senate proposals are woefully inadequate! Remember, we need a minimum increase of 2 percent on the formula each year to simply keep pace with inflationary costs.
Another top priority is the Ag2School tax credit. Throughout my recent public meetings on the proposed facility project, I?Äôve attempted to provide additional details on the Ag2School credit. At this point the House, Senate and governor all favor the school building bond agriculture credit. This provides a property tax credit on all agricultural lands equal to 40 percent of the property tax attributable to school bond referendums. This credit would apply to existing and any new capital referendums in the future. Passage of the Ag2School credit will not only reduce the tax burden on agricultural lands, but also help rural school districts pass bond referendums to maintain aging school facilities.
When the legislature returns, there will only be about 5 weeks left in the session. Please take the time to have your voice heard regarding these very important issues. Stress the need to increase the education funding targets, pass the Ag2School credit, avoid the polarized politics, and complete the legislative session as scheduled for May 22.
Weekly Quote
?ÄúThe day the Lord created hope was probably the same day he created spring.?Äù Bernard Williams
Senior Spotlight
The EV-W School District would like to recognize Breanna Stang, daughter of Annette and Dave. Breanna is described as a young lady who overcomes challenges with a smile and great attitude. She?Äôs been an active member in basketball, softball, volleyball, and also serves in leadership roles with NHS, Student Council and Investment Club. Following high school graduation, Breanna plans to attend Anoka-Ramsey Community College to pursue a degree in Physical Therapy Assistance. The EV-W administration and staff are extremely proud of Breanna and her many accomplishments. Congratulations!