March 24, 2025 PUBLIC HEARING

Mid-Prairie Community School District     

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA  52356

March 24, 2025 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

President Jake Snider called the meeting to order.

Board members present: Mary Allred, Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  None.

Staff Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, School Business Official/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber

Randy Billups moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Jed Seward.  Motion carried 7-0.

Finance

Public Hearing at 6:15 P.M. for the 2025-2026 Proposed Property Tax Levy

Board President Snider opened the Public Hearing at 6:17 p.m.  He asked if anyone from the Public wished to speak on the 2025-2026 School Year Proposed Property Tax Levy.  Two people were recognized and asked questions for clarification of whether their taxes would increase.

Comments included:

• As a person on fixed income he has no way to make up an increase in tax rate.  He needs to live within his family’s means and asked that the District strive to live within their means.  Also, the District is one of at least 3 property taxing entities, and thus taxes need to be controlled by all three.
• Farmer noted the economic hardships he is experiencing and additional property taxes with less profit margin creates another hardship.  Echoed the comments of the first person.

School Business Official Swartzentruber explained the current rate and process as especially since the Iowa Legislature as not set Spending Growth for next year.  Snider closed the Public Hearing at 6:34 p.m.

Adjournment

The meeting/hearing adjourned at 6:34 p.m.