Mauston voters approve $7 million school referendum, ensuring district's future

The Mauston School District in Wisconsin successfully passed a referendum allowing the district to exceed the state-imposed revenue limit by $1.75 million annually for the next four years, with 66% voter approval. This crucial funding will prevent the district from dissolving and enable the continuation of athletics and extracurricular activities, as well as the hiring of staff to fill vacant positions. Previously, the district faced the possibility of over $2 million in cuts if the referendum failed. The referendum's approval signifies a significant victory after two prior unsuccessful attempts, where previous referendums garnered only 38.2% and 49.4% support. The increase is estimated to impact property taxes by $0.35 per $1,000 of assessed property value. Governor Tony Evers highlighted the financial challenges faced by Wisconsin school districts, emphasizing the need for reform in the funding system to prevent similar crises elsewhere.