Operational Referendum on November Ballot The School District of Ladysmith’s Board of Education has approved an operational referendum question for the November 3, 2026, ballot. Voters will be asked whether the District should be allowed to replace existing operational referendum authority starting in the 27-28 fiscal year. If approved, the funding would help the District continue its current programs, services, staffing, and building maintenance. The Board’s decision follows a community survey conducted back in May 2026. Residents were asked about several referendum options, and the $950,000 annual amount received the most support.
An operational referendum provides funding for day-to-day school operations such as classroom instruction, student services, staffing, safety, and building operations. While the district has planned responsibly, we do not have enough predictable and stable funding to maintain quality educational opportunities for students, attract and retain quality staff in an ever competitive labor market, and adequately maintain its school facilities within the state-established revenue limits. This makes a renewal of the operational referendum critically important.
The 2026 operational referendum is about sustaining momentum and protecting progress. Approval would allow the School District of Ladysmith to continue investing in students, supporting staff, and providing the educational experiences our community values.
We invite the community to learn more and stay informed as we work together to invest in our students and future of our school district and our community.
Ballot Language Explained
If approved, the referendum will authorize $950,000 annually for five years, beginning with the 2027–2028 school year.
Official ballot language can sound complex, so we want to break down what you will see on the ballot for the November 3 election.
The Question: "Shall the School District of Ladysmith, Rusk County, Wisconsin be authorized to exceed the revenue limit specified in Section 121.91, Wisconsin Statutes, by $950,000 per year for five years, beginning with the 2027-2028 school year and ending with the 2031-2032 school year, for non-recurring purposes consisting of maintaining current educational programs, student services, and general maintenance?"
What This Means in Plain Terms:
Non-Recurring: This is a temporary five-year request, not a permanent increase.
Operational Expenses: These funds directly cover daily school operations and fixed costs.
Where It Goes: The money helps maintain class sizes, support academic and extra-curricular programs, cover rising bus and transportation costs, and retain quality teachers and staff through competitive salaries and benefits.
How Does the Proposed Referendum Compare with the Current One?
This referendum would replace the District’s current $600,000 non-recurring operational levy, which expires at the end of the 2026–27 school year. The proposed levy includes the existing $600,000 and adds $350,000 to reflect increased operating costs, for a total of $950,000.
Wisconsin School Funding
In this video, we dive into the vital topic of school finance in Wisconsin, specifically focusing on the unique challenges many school districts across Wisconsin face. Established in 1993, strict revenue limits have forced many districts, including Ladysmith, to make tough decisions each year. With costs continually rising and state-sanctioned revenue frozen, schools often must choose between cutting staff, programs, and services or seeking voter approval through operational referendums.
What Does This Mean For My Property Taxes?
While the proposed amount is higher than the tax levy that is expiring, it reflects today’s operating costs. The District recognizes that any increase matters and has worked to balance financial needs with community input. The chart shows the estimated tax impact of the additional $350,000: $10 per year ($0.83 per month) on a $100,000 property beginning in 2027-2028. Note on Property Values: Tax estimates are based on assessed property values, not market values. You can check your local property tax statement or county land records for your home's official assessed value.
How, When & Where to Vote Every eligible voter in the district has a voice in this decision. Make sure your plan to vote is clear!
Get Voting Information and Find Your Polling Place Check MyVote.wi.gov for information about registration, deadlines, and polling locations.
Polls are open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Bring an approved photo ID to your designated polling place.
How Can I Learn More?
Attend an Info Session: Watch our social media and the website for dates and times.
Submit a Question: Email the District Administrator, Dr. Jason LeMay, jlemay@sdlwi.org or contact a School Board Member
Call Us: Contact the District Office at 715-532-5277 ext. 21312 to speak directly with district leadership.
July 2026
Dear Community Members,
At the July 15, 2026 the Board of Education meeting, board members voted to place a five-year, non-recurring operational referendum on the upcoming general election ballot for Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
If approved, the referendum will authorize $950,000 annually for five years, beginning with the 2027–2028 school year.
Replacing an Expiring Referendum This measure is designed to replace our current $600,000 operational referendum, which is set to expire at the end of the 2026–2027 school year.
What Funds Will Support? Unlike capital referendums (which build new facilities or pay off debt), operational referendums fund the everyday costs of running our schools: Academic Programming: Maintaining core curriculum, elective offerings, and manageable class sizes. Staffing & Retention: Attracting and retaining qualified teachers and support staff. Operational Costs: Managing rising facility utilities, bus transportation, and educational technology needs.
What Does "Non-Recurring" Mean? A non-recurring referendum is temporary. This authority automatically expires after five years and does not create a permanent tax increase.
Community Information & Next Steps District leadership is committed to transparency. In the coming months, we will be sharing further information and hosting a series of informational sessions.
Stay Tuned: Community Information Meetings: Dates and locations coming soon. Election Date: Tuesday, November 3, 2026 Questions? Check back regularly for updated FAQ documents and video presentations.
