Dozens of Minnesota school districts ask taxpayers for more funding this election

Minnesota voters will decide some big races this election, from governor to U.S. Senate. But down-ballot races and questions could reshape school districts across the state. There are more than 80 ballot questions across 63 districts, large and small. Those requests range from support for new construction projects or upgrades, but more than half seek additional funds to shore up revenue for operating costs as budget woes persist. In Robbinsdale, where the district is closing four schools, voters have three bond questions totalling $413 million that would repurpose, expand or make other changes to district buildings.Other districts like Prior Lake-Savage and Rocori are seeking capital project levies for school security upgrades as safety is top of mind."I think our districts are really feeling the pressure for inflation," said Kirk Schneidawind, executive director of the Minnesota School Boards Association. "I think they're feeling, whether it's on labor costs, diesel costs, some additi