Voters Approve Just 30% of School Referendums

Wisconsin citizens in a dozen communities voted Tuesday (April 5, 2005) to approve referendums that increase aid to public schools, but a number of school districts face detrimental cuts after voters rejected referendums.

In Marshfield, voters passed the largest school referendum, which raises $21.3 million for two new elementary schools to relieve overcrowding and the use of portable classrooms. The rest of the money will be used to renovate another elementary school, complete upgrades at the high school, and purchase technology equipment.

The Marshfield measure was finally successful after being turned down by voters in three previous elections.

Voters in the Rosendale-Brandon School District approved an additional $4.24 million to help offset a budget deficit created by declining enrollment, and reduced state and federal aid.

Greenwood voters passed a $2.5 million referendum to ease budget constraints due to declining enrollment and reductions in state aid. In nearby Spencer, voters approved a similar measure to help balance the school district's budget and avoid drastic program cuts and decreases in course offerings.

While 12 school referendums passed, voters rejected 28 other measures aimed at increasing aid for public schools. Under the pressure of state-imposed revenue controls and because of the state's failure to live up to its commitment to fund two-thirds of the cost of public education, those school districts face staff layoffs, reductions in course offerings, increased class sizes — and in some cases — school closings.

Racine voters rejected two proposals that would have allowed the district to exceed its revenue caps. The district is facing a $10.5 million deficit, and must now consider proposals to reduce staff, programs and course offerings.

Three elementary schools in Rhinelander will close this spring after voters rejected a plan to increase the tax levy by $2 million per year for three years.

Tuesday's closest election was in New Richmond, where a $54 million referendum was defeated by just 13 votes. The money would have been used to build a new high school and remodel three other school buildings in the fast-growing district.

Posted April 11, 2005