Taxpayers in the Elmbrook School District (SDE) have a second chance at approving a referendum for SDE high schools on April 1.  Two groups independently developed recommendations for the 2008 referendum.  One group (sponsored by SDE) included district/board representatives.  The second group did not.

Let's compare the 2007 and 2008 referendums.

Last year's recommendation was presented as "needs based."  However, it was a two-part referendum (one for the high schools themselves and another for the athletic stations).  The combined price tag: $108.8 million.  Both referendums were resoundly defeated.

This year's referendum is also "needs based" but it includes both schools and athletics. The price tag: $62.2 million. 

Last year, the school district used a comprehensive and expensive information campaign to sway voters.  This year, SDE is apparently presenting "just the facts".  They apparently feel more confident with this year's referendum proposal.

How do the two referendums differ?

The schools have been downsized from 2007 in terms of student body and square footage.  Classrooms are smaller, but they are being more fully utilized.  The buildings' square footage cost is higher $683.41 (2008) vs. $425.00 (2007).  The financing rate is lower (5% vs. 5.5% last year). Based on the average Elmbrook home value ($321,000) the building tax will be lower $170 vs. $326.

When you vote April 1, carefully consider all the facts and the "needs."   The building tax is only one element of school taxes; school taxes are only one component of overall property taxes.

Property tax bills will be arriving in the next two weeks.  It's something to look forward to -- and a gift from our taxing authorities.

Remember, municipalities, county government, school board and vocational schools all share a bit of the pie. Because property assessments are generally increasing, it's an even larger bite. The full impact is softened by the state tax credit.  Broadly speaking, each taxing entity raised their budgets about 3% or more.  The Town of Brookfield decided not to its increase their tax rate (not budget).

At budget time in the real world, some businesses mandate budget cuts in specific areas or departments to mitigate the impact.  Others use zero-based budgeting.  Funding must be justified.

Reportedly there are funds within the city's and school system's budget that are unallocated.  "Slush" might be an advantageous word given recent weather.  The city and school system are reluctant to use those funds because that will lessen their ability to get more money next year. In the meantime, taxpayers are paying more than is needed.

Remember that as you reach into your wallets.

Happy holidays.