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Operating Levy Referendum FAQs

What is an Operating Levy Referendum?

  • This is a request of voters to increase taxes for the purpose of providing for the day-to-day costs of operating a school district. Operating levies include funding teachers, support staff, classroom materials and school operations. “Levies are for learning, and bonds are for building” is a phrase that describes the difference between operating levies and bond referendums.

What is the exact question for the Operating Levy Referendum?

  • The board of Independent School District No. 13 (Columbia Heights Public Schools), Minnesota has proposed to increase the School District's referendum revenue by $550 per pupil, subject to an annual increase at the rate of inflation beginning with taxes payable in 2028. The proposed new referendum revenue authorization would be first levied in 2026 for taxes payable in 2027 and applicable for ten (10) years unless otherwise revoked or reduced as provided by law.
  • Shall the new referendum authorization proposed by the board of Independent School District No. 13 (Columbia Heights Public Schools), Minnesota, be approved?

When was the last time Columbia Heights Public Schools District had a voter-approved Operating Levy Referendum?

  • Voters approved a revoke and replace of the Operating Levy in 2023 with an increase per pupil from $308.93 to $827.

Did the passage of the 2023 Operating Levy increase my taxes?

  • The Operating Levy passed in 2023 increased the tax for property owners by $7.75 per month on an average valued home.

How much would the 2026 Operating Levy increase my taxes if it passes?

  • The Operating Levy would increase the tax for property owners by $170 annually on an average valued home.

Do renters directly have to pay for an Operating Levy?

  • No, only property owners in Columbia Heights Public Schools boundaries directly pay these levies.

What is the term length of the 2026 Operating Levy?

  • The 2026 Operating Levy is a 10-year levy. The school district would first receive these funds in fiscal year 2028 and would continue to receive these funds through fiscal year 2038. The school board would be presented with annual updates on progress of the 2026 Operating Levy.