Both EP Schools referendum questions OK’d

Eden Prairie voters said ‘yes’ by a generous margin to the two referendum questions placed on the ballot by Eden Prairie Schools (EP Schools) in the Nov. 8 election.

The questions related to two tax levies that will help fund EP Schools’ operating budget (which pays for programs and learning) and capital markets budget (which pays for technology and security) for the next several years.

The operating levy question passed with 16,918 ‘yes’ votes, or 63.29%. 9,812 voters, or 36.71%, voted “no” on this question.

With the passage of Question 1, the current operating levy of $1,815.27 per student will now be revoked and replaced with a levy of $2,075.27 per student. The tax impact is estimated to be less than $8 per month in property taxes for an Eden Prairie home valued at $430,000.

The capital projects levy question passed with 17,946 ‘yes’ votes, or 67.72%. 8,554 voters, or 32.28%, voted “no” on this question.

With the passage of Question 2, the previously-approved capital projects levy will be renewed at the same level. This levy funds technology infrastructure such as student devices, classroom technologies, and teacher training. Passing this levy will have no additional property tax impact.

On Nov. 8 following the release of the election results, Superintendent Josh Swanson said, “I’m thrilled with the results, and honestly just incredibly proud of the great work our staff do every day with our students and families, and appreciative of the very clear support from our community to continue on the path we’re on.”

“There’s just so much to celebrate as we look towards our future with this result,” he said. “This will keep our class sizes small and allow us to continue to evolve programming and personalized learning.

“There are so many amazing opportunities for our kids that we’re offering and are continuing to expand, and opportunities to inspire students along way the way, too. I’m really excited to continue our work with our staff and families, and appreciative to the community for all the support,” Swanson added.

Steve Bartz, who won his bid for re-election to the school board, told EPLN after learning of election results, “I want to thank Superintendent Swanson, and the communications department for their important work on informing the electorate of the referendum items on the ballot. I am encouraged that Eden Prairie voters supported our schools this evening.”