---

The North Branch School Board gave final approval in regular session November 13 to go for a vote February 10, 2026 asking for permission to continue a levy that is due to expire in 2027 after being in place for 10 years.  The renewal is for capital technology related needs and is set at approximately three percent.  (Story from workshop discussion in Press November 13.). 

A home valued at $250,000 back in 2017 would have seen a tax bill of $70 per year at the three percent rate.  Fast forward 10 years and the home, with a theoretical  value increase to $300,000 will see the levy require $90 per year.

The district has control over the rate but not over local property tax valuations, which are tied to actual real estate sales and other local factors.

North Branch Director of Finances and Personnel Todd Tetzlaff mentioned the district’s  credit rating has improved which is a testament to the district staff and closely budgeted use of fiscal resources.

The referendum consultant from Ehlers public finance advisors, Shelby McQuaid, added that credit rating reports are inclusive of a number of considerations that are important in the lending and borrowing world and having a rating upgraded,  shows the district fiscal management is viewed as being responsible and the district is in a good place.

School Board Chair Tim MacMillan noted the use of this relatively small amount of authorized levy has helped avoid larger expenditures and he supports continued application of these designated funds to technology.

The vote will be February 10 on renewal of the existing levy.  The first payment will come on tax statements for payable amounts in 2028.

---