Frequentling asked questions title
Your questions matter. We are working hard to reach everyone before the election day, November 4, 2025. Here are some questions commonly asked.

JCC Referendum 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is on the ballot for JCC Schools on November 4?
 There will be two questions:

  • Question 1: An Operating Referendum to revoke the current levy and replace it with $820 per student for 10 years.

  • Question 2: A Capital Projects Levy of $250,000 per year for 10 years to support technology, curriculum, security, and other capital needs.

 

 

2. Why does JCC need additional funding?
The district is facing rising costs for insurance, staffing, and services while state aid increases have not kept pace. Enrollment is also declining, which directly impacts revenue. Additional funding is needed to maintain financial stability and continue offering quality programs.

 

 

3. How will the Operating Referendum help students?
 The funds will help JCC:

  • Retain quality teachers and staff

  • Preserve manageable class sizes

  • Maintain academic and co-curricular opportunities

  • Provide resources for student success

 

 

4. How will the Capital Projects Levy be used?
 The $250,000 annual levy will:

  • Upgrade technology for students and staff

  • Improve safety and security (cameras, systems, etc.)

  • Support curriculum updates

  • Cover capital projects that otherwise come from the general fund, saving at least $175,000 per year

 

 

5. What is the tax impact if both questions pass?

  • A home valued at $200,000: about $119 per year ($9.92/month)

  • Agricultural land: about 44 cents per acre per year

 

 

6. Will passing these questions eliminate all future budget cuts?
No. While passing both questions will minimize reductions, the district will still need to “right-size” based on enrollment and revenue. Without approval, reductions would be much larger.

 

 

7. What will be cut if the referendum does not pass?
 If the referendum fails, the district would likely face:

  • Increased class sizes

  • Fewer student support services

  • Cuts to programs and opportunities currently available

 

 

8. How does JCC’s referendum compare to surrounding districts?
Even with the proposed $820 per student levy, JCC remains comparable to or below many surrounding districts in terms of operating referendum amounts and tax impacts.

 

 

9. When and where do I vote?
 Election Day is Tuesday, November 4, from 2:00–8:00 PM at:

  • Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Lakefield

  • Good Shepherd Hall, Jackson

  • Absentee ballots are also available at the JCC District Office, 1128 North Highway, Jackson (door 2 by the flag poles at the HS) beginning September 19 between 8am -3:30pm Monday through Friday (excluding Oct 16-17).

     

    Informational Meeting Questions:

    The state currently reports our school district’s fund balance at 19.75%, which reflects a healthy financial position. However, it’s important to understand what this number includes:

    • Non-spendable dollars - funds tied up in inventory such as paper, cleaning supplies, and other materials.

    • Restricted dollars - grant funds that can only be used for specific purposes if certain requirements are met.

    • Assigned dollars - money that has been set aside for specific future needs or commitments.

    When these categories are excluded, the unassigned or available fund balance (the portion that can be used for general operations or unexpected needs) is 14.4%, or approximately

    $2.3 million according to our most recent audit. If the district continues to be underfunded by $500,000 per year, this available balance is projected to be depleted by the 2028–2029

    school year and fall below the district’s required minimum (12.5%) well before then. While the district has been making budget cuts to reduce the shortfall, this approach is not sustainable

    in the long term.