'Pillen Plan' expected to boost school levy

McCOOK, Neb. – The “Pillen Plan,” recently passed by the Nebraska legislature is expected to have a negative impact on the McCook Public School system to the tune of $450,000 according to projections provided by the Nebraska Department of Education.

MPS Superintendent Grant Norgaard will update the Board of Education on the impact of the new school financing formula at Monday’s meeting in the Junior High Conference Room beginning at 6:30 p.m.

In information released to board members in advance of the meeting, Norgaard stated, “Considering how this projection forecasts our finances for next year, it is hard to see how we can avoid a [property tax] levy increase.”

Other items in the superintendent’s report include an update on construction projects at the school and a planned upgrade to playground equipment at McCook Elementary.

The playground project funds come from several sources including the school’s depreciation fund, grants, and fundraising efforts.

Norgaard will also ask the Finance and Facilities committees to begin meeting to discuss movement on a bond issue for a new Junior High building. In addition, the board will be asked to approve a contract with First National Capital Markets for the role of Municipal Advisor for the project. The board heard a presentation from a representative of First National Capital Markets at the May meeting.

The board will also be asked to approve a new contract for Jill Patel, SH Special Education Teacher and approve a district administrator salary package with a maximum total salary increase of $35,500.

The price of school lunch and breakfast will increase by 10 cents for the 2023-24 school year if approved by the board. Breakfast will be $2.10 for elementary and central students and $2.20 for junior and senior high students. Lunch will cost $3.10 for elementary students; $3.20 for central elementary students; and $3.35 for junior and senior high students.

Student handbooks will also be approved for McCook High School, Junior High School, Central Elementary, and McCook Elementary.