GILLETT, WI – The Gillett School District superintendent is clarifying earlier remarks about the future of the district if an upcoming referendum fails.
Superintendent Nathan Hanson walked back comments suggesting the district would immediately begin dissolution talks if voters reject the proposed operational referendum on April 7. During a recent public information meeting, Hanson apologized, saying he overstated his remarks and acknowledged they may have caused confusion.
Hanson clarified that while dissolution remains one possible long-term outcome if the district cannot stabilize its finances, it would not happen right away. District officials say that if the referendum fails, options include studying the dissolution process, implementing approximately $1.5 million in budget cuts, or continuing to pursue other long-term financial solutions.
School board members emphasized that closing the district is not something they want to see happen, but they acknowledged it could become a reality if financial challenges persist. Voters will decide the fate of the proposed five-year operational referendum this spring as the district works to address ongoing budget concerns.
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