Wausau School Board Approves 3% Increase in Levy Rate, Promises Consistency for Homeowners
The Wausau School Board has recently made a decision that will impact homeowners in the district. During their annual meeting held on Monday, the board voted to adopt next year’s tax levy, with a 3% increase in the levy rate. However, the board has promised homeowners that they can expect consistency in their bills compared to the previous year.
Assistant Superintendent of Operations, Josh Viegut, explained that although the levy is increasing by 3%, it is closely tied to net new construction in the district. As a result, the individual homeowner rate should remain relatively stable. Viegut emphasized that it is important to consider two variables in the equation. If the rate decreases but the property value significantly increases, homeowners may still see an increase on their 2024 bill. Conversely, if property valuations remain consistent, a decline could be in order.
Viegut, who is overseeing his first budget for the school district after taking over from retired Bob Tess, stated that the approved budget will be announced in the upcoming October meeting. He highlighted that one of the major accomplishments in the proposed spending plan is a significant boost in employee salaries across the board. Certified staff will receive the largest salary increase in the past five years, and a 5% across-the-board increase will also be implemented for other staff members. Viegut explained that this is particularly important amid a time of high inflation, providing support and stability for employees.
It’s the largest salary increase for certified staff in the last five years. We were also able to give a 5% across the board for [other] increases, so that was pretty healthy. That’s good for people, especially during this time of high inflation, Viegut emphasized.
Furthermore, Viegut affirmed the district’s commitment to serving the students and providing them with the best education possible. He expressed his confidence in the current state of the district, acknowledging that it is in a great place to fulfill its mission.
The Wausau School Board’s decision to increase the levy rate by 3% demonstrates their dedication to maintaining consistency for homeowners. While there may be adjustments based on property valuations, the aim is to provide stability for taxpayers. The upcoming October meeting will reveal the approved budget, which includes substantial salary increases to support the district’s hardworking employees. With a focus on serving the students and ensuring they receive a quality education, the Wausau School District is committed to delivering excellence in the years ahead.
