Ennis Schools Building Reserve Levy Information

Stay updated on the developments regarding the proposed tax levy to make informed decisions.

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Your Voice Matters

Help ensure that all voters in the Ennis School District are well informed about the proposed building reserve levy.

Levy Fast Facts

Be informed about the proposed building reserve levy.

Property Assessment Value

Discover your property's taxable value.

Property Tax Assistance

Learn who is eligible for school levy tax exemptions.

Election Information

Find out information about the May 6th mail ballot election.

Fast Facts

What is being proposed?

A two-year Building Reserve Levy totaling $7M to address critical capital repairs and deferred maintenance that if left unaddressed could shut down the school.

Why is this levy needed now?

The Ennis School District has not passed a building levy since 2017. 

We are in a critical situation with immediate infrastructure needs. If these items are not addressed now, it could significantly disrupt or shut down our school.

The State legislature’s formula for school funding has not kept pace with inflation and the cost of operations. Montana schools require building levies to fund maintenance, repairs, and replacement to building infrastructure. 

What does this levy fund?

Funds will be immediately deployed to repair or replace critical infrastructure, including:

PHASE 1 NEEDS:

  • High School Roof Replacement
  • Boiler Repair and Maintenance
  • Water Softening System
  • Industrial Water Heater Replacement (2)
  • Condensing Units in Server Room (3)
  • Glycol Maintenance

PHASE 2 NEEDS:

  • HVAC Air Handling Units
  • Air Separators
  • Fire Alarm System & Repairs 
  • Additional Water Heaters
  • LED Lighting Upgrade
  • Heaters and Exhaust Fan/Filter

PHASE 3 NEEDS:

  • Plumbing Repairs and Upgrades
  • ADA Compliance for Library
  • Electrical Panels Replacement
  • Bathroom Upgrades/ADA Compliance
  • Water Pressure Regulator
  • Modular Classroom Repairs
  • Additional Unit Heaters
  • Concrete/Stair Repairs
  • Exterior Wall/Masonry Repairs
  • Intercom/Bell Replacement
  • Maintenance Shed Repairs
  • HVAC Control Replacement
  • Snow Removal Equip Replacement
  • Furniture Replacement
  • Door/Window Replacement (to increase energy efficiency)
What specific cuts are at risk if the levy does not pass?

If the levy does not pass a committee will be formed to recommend cuts.  All cuts must be approved by the board of trustees.  Possible cuts could include:

  • Elimination of most recently added sports programs (wrestling, softball, golf and cross country) of wrestling, softball, golf and cross country (last 4 athletic programs that were added)

  • Eliminate art, music, and PE programs

  • Eliminate field trip travel

  • Eliminate after school programs

  • Reduction of teaching staff and paraprofessional staff

How much will this levy cost the average homeowner?

  • $3.59 per month ($43.05 per year) on a property valued at $300,000

  • $7.18 per month ($86.10 per year) on a property valued at $600,000

Are property taxes based on market value or assessed value?

Property taxes are based on the assessed value NOT market value. To find your property’s taxable value, visit: https://svc.mt.gov/msl/cadastral/

Who is eligible for school levy tax exemptions?

Certain eligible citizens may be exempt from paying all or part of property taxes (which includes school levy taxes).

  • Property Tax Assistance Program (PTAP)

  • MT Disabled Veteran Assistance Program (MDV)

  • MT Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit

For additional information see https://mtrevenue.gov/property/#PropertyTaxAssistance

How will the community know the funds are being used appropriately?

The school is limited to using the Building Reserve levy funds only for the purposes stated on the ballot. The district’s financial reports are public documents that show exactly how funds are allocated and spent.

When will the levy be voted on?

This will be on your May 6, 2025 ballot. Ballots will be mailed on April 16, 2025.

How will the election be conducted?

The May 6th election will be conducted via mail ballot. In a mail ballot election, all registered voters within the district receive a ballot in the mail. Executed ballots can be returned by mail or in person at the county election office or a designated drop off location (if applicable). Election information can be found at the following link: https://madisoncountymt.gov/159/Election-Information

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