School districts could turn out record numbers in Nov. referendums

Voters in a record number of school districts could be asked to weigh in on funding referendums this November.

The Minnesota School Boards Association annually surveys school districts to ask whether they plan to seek more funding from voters. The group notes an increase over recent years of districts seeking more local property tax funding to supplement relatively flat state funding.

In some districts, voters could be asked to approve a property tax increase. Others districts are asking for a renewal that keeps taxes at current level.

This year could set a new record. The group said 114 school districts, a third of all districts, so far have indicated they at least are considering a November ballot question. If consideration comes to vote, that would break the current record of 101 districts, set in 2007.

The boards association has yet to hear from some districts. Districts have another month to decide to seek a vote, and more could follow suit.