A crumbling track, antiquated heating and cooling systems, outdated classrooms -- those are some of the problems that could be fixed in the Forest Lake school district if voters approve a $176 million tax request in May.


"We have not had the money to keep up with maintenance as well as we should have," said Linda Madsen, superintendent. "It has built up over the years and we have to make some decisions."



Now, just 25 Minnesota districts have authority to raise taxes for facilities without voter approval. Those districts are eligible for what is called "alternative funding" for facilities because they have a certain mix of student enrollment, building square-footage and facility age.





Bob Indihar, superintendent of Moose Lake schools and co-chair of the committee set up by the Legislature, said the committee's priority is to make the system more equitable. Districts that don't qualify for alternative funding generally are smaller or rural districts, and they struggle to keep up with basic building repairs.

"This is supposed to be a statewide system," Indihar said. "The state is responsible for educating all kids, but we have some districts who have it easier than others. It's a huge issue we are trying to tackle."




State Rep. Duane Quam, the only Republican lawmaker on the facilities committee, worries voters are about to lose more control over their property taxes. The Byron resident says he's opposed to sweeping changes that would take local decisions about school facilities out of voters' hands.

"Frankly, that local decision capability is something we need to have," Quam said. "Without checks and balances, you end up causing turmoil and frustration."


Any improvements to the funding system would be welcome in many districts across the state. Forest Lake isn't the only metro district asking voters for new money for facilities. Shakopee Public Schools is asking voters to approve a $89 million measure in March to build a new high school and make other improvements.

"There really does need to be a change in how we approach this," Forest Lake's Madsen said. "If we are fortunate enough to have this (capitol bond request) pass, we'll certainly be better off."


Christopher Magan can be reached at 651-228-5557. Follow him at www.twitter.com/chris_magan.