From Jeff Maliszewski

Monroe

To the Editor:

Monroe voters will soon decide whether to authorize the School District to exceed the state revenue limit by $2.75M annually for four years, beginning next school year.

An operational referendum, it funds staffing and the day-to-day operations of the district and does not fund construction or new facilities.

The estimated property tax impact is about $136 per $100,000 of assessed value. For a $250,000 home, that works out to roughly $340 per year.

Property taxes are a real expense for homeowners. I am a local real estate broker, investor, and homeowner. I do not enjoy paying higher real estate taxes. It is responsible and reasonable to ask careful questions about any referendum.

At the same time, I recognize that my properties, like those of many homeowners, are among my largest financial assets. I know that property values tend to be stronger in communities that remain attractive to families, workers, and employers.

In my line of work, I recognize that one of the biggest factors families consider when choosing where to live is the quality of the local schools. According to the National Association of Realtors, school quality consistently ranks among the top considerations for home buyers. That means communities with strong schools tend to attract more buyers, which supports housing demand and property values.

Monroe’s schools are currently rated “Exceeding Expectations” on the State Report Card. That rating matters in the marketplace. Buyers ask about it when deciding whether to move to a community.

Monroe is the county seat and home to several major employers. We work hard to attract and retain a skilled workforce. When companies recruit employees, the quality and stability of the local school system is often part of the conversation.

If the referendum fails, the district has outlined 20+ staffing reductions, including classroom teachers and intervention specialists. Larger class sizes and fewer programs may not immediately affect property values, but will over time.

Communities must invest in the things that make them desirable places to live. Strong schools are part of that foundation.

Communities that maintain stable schools, attract workers, and support local employers tend to have stronger housing markets and higher property values over time.

Protecting the stability of the school in the long term helps protect property values.

My view is based on how housing markets work. In Monroe, our schools, employers, and property values are closely connected. I’m voting yes on the referendum.