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The Chisago Lakes School Board voted July 16 to officially express their intention to issue facilities maintenance bonds.  The vote was one of the multiple measures that need to happen to put together financing of about $16 million for projects deemed too critical to wait. 

Taxpayers have rejected previous requests for authorization to borrow and place the costs on property tax.

In this new approach about half of the next 15 years of  facilities maintenance aid from the state, will be dedicated to pay off about $5 million in projects.  There is a tax abatement tool and special funding being accessed for indoor air quality needs.

The School Board will discuss and act on remaining components of the financing package during the regular August 20 School Board meeting agenda.  

The district first needs to hold a tax abatement public hearing and the Board will consider use of tax abatement financing of about $7 million, and another package of $3 million for indoor air quality needs as well as the facilities funding it dedicated in the last meeting.

Chisago Lakes School Board was reminded  the district  issued $4.9 million facilities debt for roofing projects that are underway this summer.  

In total Chisago Lakes has $54.4 million in outstanding debt, which, if payment schedules are adhered to, will be retired in 2037-2038.  

In other business, the superintendent’s three year contract was adopted.  

The terms actually expired July 1 for Supt. Brian Dietz. 

He receives $198,300 this year, $204,196 in 2027-2028, and in 2028-2029 the wage is $212,500.  There are 37 paid days of vacation and 13 paid holidays.  Healthcare contributions are dependent on the type of plan the superintendent opts for, family or individual, etc.

And, the Board saw early numbers for the 2026-2027 budget.  

The district expects to spend down some balance, with revenues projected at $49.2 million and expenditures penciled-in at $49.8 million.  The district’s balance policy will still be met, keeping around seven percent of annual expenditures in the bank.

Some indications of inflation and general cost growth in Chisago Lakes are apparent in the budget line items. Salaries and benefits for example— which in 2025 were budgeted at $32.8 million. For 2027 they are projected to need $36.2 million.

Lunch and breakfast continue to be provided free of charge (state funded) for students in 2026-2027.

According to the meeting print materials, state aid for Chisago Lakes goes to $39.9 million in the next school year, up from $38.7 million received in 2025. The district expects to continue losing enrollment, however.  (See graph) Business office estimates are that the student population will be down over the last few years by another  30 pupils in 2027’s headcount.

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