Editor's note:  The lease agreement for the River Falls Renaissance Charter Academy was approved by the electorate at a open public meeting in August 2022. See 'Renaissance Charter Academy lease explained,' published Dec. 13, 2023. 

To the editor,

I am writing to express my concern over the lack of transparency in our school district when it comes to constructing new buildings and using private contractors for these projects. While many schools often claim financial hardship and limited resources, evidence may suggest some have cash reserves hidden from the public eye.

Recently, I read an article published about the River Falls School District. (https:// www.maciverinstitute.com/2023/08/how-to-build-a-new-school-without-prior-referendumapproval-from-taxpayers). I went back through news articles locally and School Board meetings online and confirmed things. Despite complaints asserting budget constraints, recent revelations have shown that the district gave a nearly $1 million gift to a local developer to construct a building, which they say, they are leasing.

If they are leasing from a private developer, why contribute such a large amount toward a building owned by someone else? Especially when you are planning to pay full market price for it. If they really found a way to build a building without taxpayer transparency, input, and approval, that is wrong. The Administration and School Board should be willing to explain.

Where did they get $1 million to put toward this project?

If you are leasing the building from a private, for-profit developer, why did you give them so much money?

We value our kids and our teachers, but the referendum coming out in February will be requesting funds for operations as well as facilities. As of this date, the operating funds to be requested will be $1 million dollars in 2024, $2 million in 2025 and $3 million in 2026, and this $3 million amount will then be requested in perpetuity. The facilities funds will be a separate dollar amount.

The next monthly School Board meeting will take place on Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. Feel free to attend and ask questions or express your feelings about an increase in your property taxes, as we are all facing the hardships of inflation and increased living costs.

Jacqueline Niccum

River Falls