Background
In 2015, the school district engaged in a comprehensive facilities study. The results of this audit were compiled by school and district building. To address the needs identified, the cost could be as much as $180 million. We realize this is not feasible, so we surveyed the community in September of 2017 to determine if residents support going to referendum and, if so, what projects residents would support in this first phase of addressing facility needs.
Survey Conclusions
The survey results concluded three points for consideration.
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The community supports going to referendum.
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The community supports a total project cost of $65 millions dollars.
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The community prioritizes the following in the first phase:
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A new Stillson elementary school
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An addition, remodel, and mechanical updates (HVAC, plumbing, electric) for the Chippewa Falls Middle School
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A STEAM Lab addition and mechanical updates (HVAC, plumbing, electric)
Resolution
At the regular December Board meeting, the Board of Education voted to put a referendum question on the April 2018 ballot. This referendum question is for an amount not to exceed $65 million for the construction of a new Stillson Elementary School; a 10-classroom addition, repair, and betterment for the Chippewa Falls Middle School; and a STEAM lab addition, repair, and betterment for the Chippewa Falls Senior High School.
Tax Impact of the Referendum
If the referendum passes, a taxpayer’s property tax will increase by $1.25 per $1000 of total tax assessed value.
To determine how a passed referendum would impact your tax bill, please find your Total Assessed Value on your most recent tax bill. Take that amount at multiply it by .00125. That will give you your annual tax impact.
Example:
$212,200 X .00125 = $265.25 per year or $22.10 per month
A Tax Impact Calculator can be found by clicking on the following link:
http://staff.chipfalls.k12.wi.us/board/referendum/taximpactcalc.aspx
Communication
From January to April, the school district will communicate information to residents to help them make an informed decision at the polls on April 3, 2018. This communication will include podcasts, newsletter articles, and in-person presentations. Presentations will begin in March of 2018, with the schedule forthcoming.
Voting Day Information
The vote for the referendum is APRIL 3, 2018. Please find your polling location information here. On the ballot, you will see the following question.
