Fargo families will head to the polls on Election Day, Nov. 3, to decide on a critical school‑district question. The Fargo Public School District is proposing a general‑fund mill levy of 110 mills, effective Dec. 31, 2027, that would fund district operations for the next ten years.
What the levy means for taxpayers
Superintendent Cory Steiner emphasizes that the proposal does not raise the tax rate; it simply continues the level of funding that residents have paid for the past decade. For the average Fargo home valued at $300,000, the levy translates to an additional $45 per year.
Why the district is seeking the levy
Steiner argues that the extra funding will allow the district to “look forward” and remain agile in meeting the needs of learners, families, and the community. Over the past ten years, the district has added services that were not available in 2018, including 18 social workers and a broader array of programming and electives for students.
Potential impact if the measure fails
Should voters reject the levy, the district plans to operate on a reduced budget for the upcoming school year. The district has already cut $5 million from its budget and would need to trim up to $2.5 million annually for the next 15 years because the property‑tax rate would remain frozen after the 2027‑28 school year. Steiner warned that a failed vote would likely lead to larger class sizes and reduced programming, affecting elective courses, co‑curricular activities, and extracurricular opportunities.
How the levy compares to past measures
In 2017, Fargo voters approved an excess levy of 127 mills. Although the mill count was higher, the two levies are structured differently and will have the same impact on taxpayers. The current proposal is designed to provide stable funding without increasing the tax burden.
Voting requirements and next steps
The referendum requires a simple majority—50 percent of the vote plus one—to pass. Voters can cast their ballots in person on Nov. 3 or use early‑voting options available in Cass and Clay counties. The district encourages residents to review the levy details and consider the long‑term benefits for students and families.
Community response
Local parents and community members have expressed both support and concern. Supporters point to the need for expanded services, such as the newly added social workers, while critics worry about any potential tax impact, even if the levy is framed as a continuation of existing rates. Steiner reiterated that the district’s goal is to provide a high‑quality education environment without imposing new financial burdens on families.
For more information on the referendum, including how the levy funds will be allocated, residents can visit the Fargo Public Schools website or attend upcoming informational meetings hosted by the district.
Original reporting: InForum (Fargo section) — read the source article.
