The Osakis School Board reviewed the findings of a community-wide survey at their meeting on Wednesday, October 1, conducted by the independent education research firm, School Perceptions. The survey's goal was to gather feedback on the community's priorities and the current facilities' needs and limitations, following two previous failed attempts to pass a school bond referendum.
The survey findings revealed mixed support for the district's initial $21 million base plan. This plan represented a significant reduction from the previous $31.2 million proposal by reducing square footage and adding versatility to the replacement space for the 1940s auditorium. The central needs of this plan, including the expansion of shop/trades classrooms and addressing safety and security concerns, were identified as high priorities. The estimated property tax increase for a $215,000 home under this plan would be $101 per year, or about $8 a month. While 72% of staff and 70% of parents supported this plan, only 46% of other community members were in favor. Of those who opposed the plan, 71% cited the tax impact as too large, and 62% said the plan was too expensive.
According to Daren Sievers, Project Manager for School Perceptions, the data suggests that support increases as the cost of the project decreases. Based on this, Sievers recommended the board consider a project costing less than $20 million.
In response, the School Board is reviewing and considering a more scaled-back proposal for a future referendum, as early as February 2026. Board member Corey Goodwin summarized the board's task, stating the goal is to see, “What does a $19.9 million-dollar project look like?” Superintendent Justin Dahlheimer added, "We want to be a group that does what we say we're going to do," emphasizing that the needs of the district will not go away. He also noted that with every passing day, the costs of construction continue to grow due to inflation.
The next Osakis School Board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 15, at 5:30 p.m. at the district offices.
You can watch a summary of the survey results in this video (approximately 6 minutes long):
You can watch the full presentation on the survey results in this video (approximately 30 minutes long)