Lakeville Area Schools Voters Approve $44M Technology Levy Renewal

Lakeville, MN — Voters in Independent School District No. 194 (Lakeville Area Schools) overwhelmingly approved the renewal of the district's technology capital project levy on Tuesday, with 69% voting in favor of the measure.

The renewed levy will generate approximately $4.4 million annually for the next ten years, totaling an estimated $43.9 million over the authorization period. The first levy collection is scheduled for taxes payable in 2026.

This represents a renewal of the existing capital project levy at 2.981% of the district's net tax capacity—not a new tax. The previous authorization was set to expire after taxes payable in 2025.

The capital project levy authorization provides funding for three primary areas:

According to the ballot language, the estimated total cost of projects funded over the ten-year period is approximately $43,993,510.

With 100% of precincts reporting, the final tally showed strong community support:

The 31-point margin indicates substantial agreement among Lakeville voters that maintaining technology funding remains a district priority.

In the concurrent special election for school board member, Tony Reichenberger won the seat with 51% of the vote, defeating challenger Brett Nicholson.

Final results:

The margin of victory was 327 votes out of 10,659 ballots cast in the school board race.

Because this is a renewal rather than a new levy, property owners in the district should not see an increase in their school district technology levy taxes beyond what they're currently paying. The levy simply continues at existing levels rather than expiring after 2025.

The authorization runs through taxes payable in 2035, providing ten years of dedicated funding for technology needs across Lakeville Area Schools.

Modern schools require significant ongoing investment in technology infrastructure. From cybersecurity systems that protect student data to STEM equipment that prepares students for technical careers, these capital investments require dedicated funding streams beyond general operating budgets.

The ten-year authorization period allows the district to plan major technology initiatives with confidence, knowing the funding mechanism is secure. This can lead to better purchasing decisions, more strategic implementations, and ultimately better value for taxpayers.

The decisive 69% approval suggests Lakeville residents prioritize maintaining the district's technology capabilities. With technology playing an increasingly central role in both instruction and school operations, voters appear willing to continue the investment that keeps district systems current and secure.

The competitive school board race—decided by fewer than 350 votes—demonstrates engaged civic participation, with over 10,600 residents weighing in on district leadership.