Operational Referendum: November 5, 2024

Thank You, MTSD! 

On November 5, 2024, voters in the Mequon-Thiensville School District (MTSD) approved a $26.4 million operational referendum by a margin of 52% yes to 48% no - the first approved operational referendum in the school district’s history -  to maintain and sustain the district’s operations. This decision reflects the community's commitment to investing in our high-quality public education system and supporting the needs of our students and staff members.

The Mequon-Thiensville School District (MTSD) is known for its talented staff members, robust academic and co-curricular programs, and the incredible opportunities we offer to students throughout their time in our schools. In fact, the most recent State Report Card ranked MTSD in the top 10 of all school districts across Wisconsin. 

At the same time, we are facing a serious budget crisis that requires the attention of our entire community. Projected deficits will reach up to $6 million for the 2024-25 school year.

All Wisconsin schools are subject to a revenue limit, which places a cap on the amount of money they can raise through state aid and property taxes. As a result, MTSD does not receive enough revenue to adequately fund programs and services for students. 

Proposed Solution

On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, our community will vote on a proposed $26.4 million non-recurring operational referendum. If it’s approved, the referendum would expire at the end of the 2028 school year. 

An approved referendum would enable MTSD to:

• Balance the budget without tapping into reserves

• Develop a competitive compensation system for teachers and higher starting wages for support staff members to aid in the recruitment and retention of high-quality educators

• Manage healthcare costs

• Move forward with delayed maintenance projects

• Protect our Aaa bond rating

The estimated tax impact of an approved referendum would be an increase of $0.73 per $1,000 of equalized fair market property value. For a home with a fair market value of $400,000 the total tax impact over four years is estimated to increase by $948.

Final levy and mill rate information will be presented in October when equalized values are finalized by the Department of Revenue. 

If you were not able to attend one of the two community open house and referendum information sessions hosted by MTSD this fall, please take some time to review this recorded presentation by clicking the image above, and ensure you have the facts you need to make an informed vote. Please contact the MTSD District Office at 262-238-8500 with any questions you may have about the Operational Referendum on the ballot November 5, 2024. Thank you for your engagement!

To access closed captions, please click the "CC" button at the bottom of the video window screen.

To access closed captions, please click the "CC" button at the bottom of the video window screen.

To access closed captions, please click the "CC" button at the bottom of the video window screen.