Cadott going ahead with new $24.5 million referendum
By Ginna Young
Results from a public survey have spoken and the most important things have been narrowed down, for what Cadott residents want to see updated within the school district. Because of those results, the board of education approved a resolution at their meeting Jan. 8, to put a $25.4 million referendum question on the April 2 ballot.
If approved by taxpayers, the funds will be used to construct a secure entrance at the high school, expand the technical education center, update the elementary school playground, build a community center and create an early learning center.
“We’re going to start working on that tech ed center, regardless of whether the referendum passes,” said district administrator Josh Spaeth.
Last April, the district passed a $9.9 million referendum, but the board later decided that did not include a big enough scope of work that needs to be addressed – mainly the secure entrance and expansion of the tech ed center. In the event the new referendum passes, the district will forego the $9.9 million one, but if it does not, then that old referendum will be utilized, as was intended.
Community members will not be taxed for both amounts, but the district is unable to “change” the old referendum.
“You can’t unvote it,” said board president Cory LaNou.
By creating the 2024 referendum, the funds from that, if it passes, will provide the community with a walking track, fitness center, meeting rooms and childcare options, all areas that are currently lacking.
In addition to benefiting the community, the improved amenities could lead to increased student enrollment and retaining quality staff, as the district loses $1.75 million in revenue, annually, to home schooling, private vouchers and students open enrolling in surrounding schools.
The estimated tax impact for a $100,000 property, is $13.75, per month, or $165, per year. More information is available at cadott.k12.wi.us or at upcoming listening sessions, prior to the spring election, where the referendum will be decided.
“I’m excited to see where that goes,” said Spaeth.
