Perham-Dent Public Schools has launched a new website, 549United.org, to provide residents with factual information about the proposed operating levy that will appear on the ballot this November. The website is designed to help community members learn more about the proposed levy, the new state funding program tied to it, estimated tax impacts and voting information.

District voters will decide on an operating levy on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026. If approved, the levy would generate $1,135 per student, or approximately $745,965 in new revenue for the district each year for the next 10 years. Thanks to Minnesota’s new Seasonal Recreation Tax Base Replacement Aid program, close to half of that funding would come directly from the State of Minnesota rather than local taxpayers, based on the district’s high share of seasonal recreation property.

The plan is structured to reduce, not increase, overall local school taxes. The Perham-Dent School Board has committed to reducing other local school levies if the operating levy is approved, so most residents and businesses are expected to see an overall decrease in their school-related property taxes. For a home valued at $400,000, the estimated impact is a decrease of about $13 per year. Taxes on seasonal recreation properties would remain unchanged.

“This plan is designed to bring new state resources home for our students while easing the burden on local taxpayers,” said Superintendent Mitch Anderson. “We encourage residents to visit 549United.org, ask questions, and learn more about this important community decision. The final decision belongs to voters.”

The district’s website, 549United.org, serves as a central source of information about:

• Details about the proposed operating levy and the ballot question.

• Information about state funding available through the Seasonal Recreation Tax Base Replacement Aid program.

• Estimated tax impacts for property owners, including how other local levies would change.

• Frequently asked questions.

• Election and voting information.

• Ways to submit questions and connect with district leaders.

The levy comes as Perham-Dent Public Schools looks for a responsible way to invest in classroom instruction, student programs and activities, and day-to-day district operations. Cabin and vacation home properties, which make up a significant share of the district’s tax base, are taxed separately from year-round residents and businesses. Year-round taxpayers have historically shouldered a larger share of school funding costs. Minnesota’s new Seasonal Recreation Tax Base Replacement Aid program allows districts with a significant share of seasonal recreation property, like Perham-Dent, to access state aid covering up to 50% of a voter-approved operating levy. Before bringing the question to voters, the school board reviewed district finances, enrollment trends and program needs, and consulted with financial advisors, then decided to place the levy on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot.

Perham-Dent Public Schools’ mission is to prepare every student for success in the classroom, in future careers and as engaged members of the community.

Early voting begins Friday, Sept. 18, and Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026. Residents are encouraged to visit 549United.org to learn more about the levy, review frequently asked questions, and access voting information.