School District of Thorp to Propose Capital Referendum in November

The School District of Thorp will be among those to propose a ballot referendum in the November election.

The district is proposing an $8.5 million capital referendum to help cover critical maintenance needs at the school. A capital referendum, unlike the operational referendum proposals that have become so common over recent years, is meant to cover a specific investment need rather than simply maintaining the currently available services in the district.

District officials say leaky plumbing in the building is one of their biggest issues, even forcing them to partially shut off water to their restroom facilities at times. They also say those leaks have led to water damage like moldy ceiling tiles and the smell of mildew throughout parts of the school. In addition to the plumbing, district officials are planning to use that referendum funding to replace old and worn out electrical components, a roof that is past its expected lifespan, and some worn out asphalt.

If approved by voters in November, the $8.5 million capital referendum would increase the mill rate by 64 cents. That increase would mean a property tax hike of about $5 per month on a $100,000 home. District officials also say the referendum will contribute to the long-term financial stability of the school.

A number of other school districts across Western Wisconsin will also propose a ballot referendum in the November election. The Bloomer School District is among them, proposing a $77 million capital referendum for the construction of a new high school building with a community performing arts center as well as infrastructure and safety improvements at Bloomer Middle and Elementary Schools.