Moorhead Area Public Schools is committed to helping every learner thrive in a changing world. However, decades of lagging state funding have created significant financial challenges for the district.
To address these challenges, the Moorhead School Board has voted to place a two-question referendum on the ballot for voters this fall. The referendum is designed to stabilize the district’s budget, protect high-quality education and invest in critical operational and capital needs.
Question One proposes an operating levy to generate $4.37 million each year ($575 per pupil) for 10 years to fund day-to-day operations, including teacher and staff salaries, supplies, programs, utilities and maintenance. Question Two proposes a capital projects levy to generate $1.5 million annually for 10 years, supporting essential educational equipment and tools, transportation and facility needs, which allows the general fund to remain focused on students and learning.
Together, the two levies would generate $5.87 million per year. For the owner of a median-value home ($250,000), approval of question one would result in an estimated property tax increase of $18.91 per month and approval of question two would result in an estimated property tax increase of $4.83 per month beginning in 2026.
Superintendent Brandon Lunak emphasized the importance of the measures: “We’re making difficult decisions to balance our budget, including $4 million in cuts this year alone. Without new funding, we face another $4 million in reductions next year, which will impact student instruction, including fewer staff positions, larger class sizes and reduced classes and programming. This referendum is about ensuring we can protect the high-quality education we provide.”
School Board Chair Scott Steffes noted the board’s focus on both students and taxpayers:
“This plan represents a balanced approach. We are asking for what we truly need. At the same time, this funding will give us the stability to plan for the future and continue providing innovative, high-quality learning opportunities for every student.”
The special election will take place on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Early voting begins Friday, September 19.
The Moorhead Area Public School District will be sharing more information about the referendum through a variety of communications channels.