St. Paul schools seek $1,073-per-pupil levy
St. Paul Public Schools is asking voters to approve a $1,073-per-pupil levy referendum that would generate about $37.2 million a year; district officials say failing to pass it would force at least $37 million in budget cuts for 2026–27. The district reported spending roughly $60,000 on levy communications ($108,257 including the required mailed notice), estimates the median homeowner would pay about $309 per year if it passes, and warns that percentage property‑tax increases would vary by neighborhood, with the North End, Payne‑Phalen, Thomas‑Dale/Frogtown and the West Side facing the largest increases.
đź“Ś Key Facts
- St. Paul Public Schools is asking voters to approve a levy of $1,073 per pupil (presented as a referendum on the ballot).
- If approved the levy would generate about $37.2 million per year in added revenue; district officials say without the levy they expect at least $37 million in budget cuts for the 2026–27 school year.
- The district estimates the citywide median homeowner would pay about $309 per year if the levy passes.
- Neighborhood tax-impact breakdown: St. Anthony Park, Battle Creek, Sunray, Highwood and downtown would see the lowest percentage property‑tax increases, while North End, Payne‑Phalen, Thomas‑Dale/Frogtown and the West Side would see the highest percentage increases.
- St. Paul Public Schools reported spending $59,977 on levy communication materials, and $108,257 total including the required mailed notice, as of Oct. 29.
đź“° Sources (2)
Voters will decide on St. Paul Public Schools levy referendum Tuesday
New information:
- SPPS reported spending $59,977 on levy communication materials; $108,257 including the required mailed notice as of Oct. 29.
- Neighborhood breakdown: If city, county, and school levies (including the referendum) are approved, St. Anthony Park, Battle Creek, Sunray, Highwood and downtown would see the lowest percentage property‑tax increases, while North End, Payne‑Phalen, Thomas‑Dale/Frogtown and the West Side would see the highest percentage increases.
- District officials say without the levy they expect at least $37 million in budget cuts for the 2026–27 school year.
- Confirms citywide median homeowner impact estimate of about $309 per year if the levy passes and reiterates ~$37.2 million per year in added revenue.