The Referendum

On November 3, 2026, Alexandria voters will decide on the Cardinal Community Plan, an operating levy that would help fund neighborhood schools, retain teachers and staff, and preserve student programs. If approved, it would also bring new state education dollars to the district.

Why It's Needed

The district has made $5 million in cuts in recent years and projects a $4 million general fund shortfall for the 2027–28 school year. An operating levy would provide ongoing funding for day-to-day education costs.

Rising Costs

State funding has not kept pace with costs.

Growing Shortfall

A $4 million gap is projected for 2027–28.

Student Impact

Further cuts could affect programs, staff, class sizes, and neighborhood schools.

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Why Vote Yes?

A yes vote on the Cardinal Community Plan would help protect Alexandria’s neighborhood schools, staff, and student programs. Despite $5 million in past cuts, the district faces a projected $4 million shortfall for 2027–28.

The proposed levy would provide about $3.7 million annually for day-to-day school needs. New state aid would cover just over half of it, reducing the amount funded locally.

A Yes Vote Helps Preserve:

Neighborhood Schools

Keep schools close to the families and communities they serve, including Alexandria, Carlos, Garfield, and Miltona.

People & Programs

Help retain the teachers and support staff students count on, while preserving the programs that support their learning every day.

Learning Opportunities

Preserve academic programs, student services, and experiences that help students find their strengths and prepare for what comes next.

How To Vote

A Chance to Bring State Dollars Home

The Cardinal Community Plan would generate approximately $3.7 million each year to support Alexandria Public Schools. Thanks to a new Minnesota program, just over half of that funding would come from state aid if voters approve the operating levy. The rest would be funded locally.

That funding would help the district address its projected shortfall while maintaining neighborhood schools, staff, student services, and learning opportunities. For the owner of a $400,000 home, the estimated tax increase would be about $10 per month.

By The Numbers

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million

Estimated annual funding the proposed levy would generate for schools.

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state funded

The portion of the proposed levy that would be paid through new state aid if voters approve it.

$0

per month

Estimated property tax increase for the owner of a $400,000 home, starting in 2027.

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years

Length of the proposed levy, with an annual adjustment for inflation.

How To Vote

Make Your Voice Heard

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Learn about your voting options and make a plan. Whether you vote absentee, vote early in person, or cast your ballot on Election Day, here’s what you need to know.

Absentee Voting

Absentee voting begins Friday, September 18, 2026. Request a ballot to vote by mail or in person.

Early Voting

Early in-person voting begins Friday, October 16, 2026, at the Douglas County Auditor–Treasurer Office.

Election Day Voting

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3rd, 2026.
Polls are open on Election Day from 7am to 8pm.

Learn More About How To Vote