SHAWANO, WI-During a work session on July 22, the Shawano School Board continued to fine-tune its proposed November referendum, with a final decision expected on August 12. The district has already trimmed nearly $2.3 million from the previous referendum, which failed to pass. This revised plan suggests tax rates will drop regardless of the referendum’s outcome.
“The main point is to make sure we are doing all that we can to make the schools perfect for the kids and being fiscally responsible in doing so,” said School Board President Mike Musolff. He said they have made plans to better utilize space, rather than building more. “I think it will be a lot more pleasing to the voters.
Some talk has come from community members who have suggested fundraising for some performing arts and athletic field amenities at Shawano Community High School, which are currently included in the $7.6 million referendum estimate.
Since the first referendum, the plans for daycare at Hillcrest Primary School was removed. “It seems most of the board is in support of this plan, I have not heard from anyone that they are not,” Musolff said.
Jody Anders, a consultant from Hoffman Planning and Design, warned against removing improvements from the referendum so close to the state’s August 27 ballot question deadline. Although fundraising inquiries had been made, no commitments had been received.
Superintendent Kurt Krizan emphasized the importance of demonstrating that all proposed referendum items are essential. He highlighted the high school’s fitness and weight room, currently half the size of those in comparable districts, and proposed repurposing existing school spaces for expansion.
Krizan also pointed out that much of the equipment in schools is outdated and failing, citing the electrical panel at Olga Brener Intermediate School as a significant issue.
Musolff is encouraging people to be sure they are well informed this time around.
“Make sure you get to know everything in the plan and if you have questions, go ahead and ask.”
The board is expected to finalize the referendum wording next month.
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