ACSD Board holds public hearing on proposed property tax levy, approves several changes to district’s preschool program

by Brianne Grimstad

The Allamakee Community School District School Board of Directors met Tuesday evening, March 25 for a public hearing regarding the 2025-2026 proposed property tax levy, followed by a special meeting. Board President Erik Helgerson and board member Beth Shafer were present for the public hearing.

ACSD Superintendent Jay Mathis opened the hearing by explaining that the board members would listen and take into consideration comments made, but would not be responding to comments. There were no written comments received.

Several members of the public were present to offer comment at the meeting. Topics of concern or questions presented by the public included the Education Savings Accounts (vouchers) and the fact that public tax payer money is going to be used to fund private schools, questions on how the process works for determining property valuation and the tax levy, how rising property tax rates are affecting businesses and rural residents, and how the school spends their money and whether or not any spending can be cut back. Helgerson thanked those in attendance for voicing their opinions and questions and noted the board will take those comments into consideration.

The public hearing was closed and the board moved into its special meeting. Board member Scott Melcher joined the meeting via phone. Under the Consent Agenda, the board approved the resignation of Bethany Engen from her Elementary Music Teacher position. One open enrollment into the district was approved. A student teaching agreement with Morningside University was approved, as was an agreement with Crossroads Academy in Decorah establishing a consortium to jointly administer an instructional program.

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