School Board Approves $4.5-million Total Tax Levy at Annual Meeting

It was a light turnout with only about a dozen or so guests attending the annual school board meeting held Wednesday evening, October 20. Most of those in attendance were there due to agenda items on the upcoming regular meeting that followed.

School board President Shad Torgerson was elected to serve as chairperson. Linda Flottum, school board clerk, was appointed to clerk the meeting.

Administrator Kent Kindschy presented the 2021-22 budget. He pointed out one major increase was $100,000 for Community Service.

Following presentation of the budget district residents present for the meeting approved a total tax levy of $4,553,611.00, which included $100,000 for Community Service, $4,453,611 for the General Fund.

Annual school board member salaries were also approved. Per meeting salaries were outlined as: President – $234.00; Treasurer and directors – $214.00; Clerk – $253.00. Each member is also paid $45.00 per half day and $90 per full day for necessary meetings which are held in addition to board and committee meetings.

Also approve was authorization of the board to be paid for necessary expenses incurred when serving on the board outside the District; to direct and provide for the prosecution or defense of any proceedings in which the District is interested; enter into lease agreements pertaining to the School District of Turtle Lake buildings and equipment not needed for school purposes to any person for any lawful use at a reasonable rental; acquire real estate through purchase or condemnation; set the date of the 2022 Annual Meeting and Budget Hearing and any other business that may come before the Annual Meeting.