<html><head><style type="text/css"><!-- DIV {margin:0px;} --></style></head><body><div style="font-family:verdana, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12pt"><DIV>Neighbors,</DIV>
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<DIV>We all know that tomorrow is May 19 - the day we elect school board candidates and vote on the budget. I was going to take a long time to try to disseminate the information for everyone about the budget, so that we can make an informed choice. You can view the proposed budget at <A href="http://www.mtvernoncsd.org">www.mtvernoncsd.org</A> for more information and a complete budget breakdown.</DIV>
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<DIV>In addition, Charles Stern, of MVSchoolTalk.net, broke it down very simply for everyone. So if you're interested in his breakdown (as I'm not allowed to post it here because of our 501(c)(3) regulations, please visit <A href="http://www.mvschooltalk.net">www.mvschooltalk.net</A> for more information.</DIV>
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<DIV>I know there has been a lot of confusion for a few weeks regarding the budget numbers, as a lot of percentages are thrown around. Here is the information, as per the School District Website:</DIV>
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<P>The <STRONG>Proposed Budget 2009-10 is $203,175,490</STRONG> and includes a <STRONG>9.94 % tax levy increase</STRONG>.</P>
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<P>If this budget is not approved, the contigency (austerity) budget is <STRONG>$197,003,896</STRONG> and includes an <STRONG>8.83 % tax levy increase</STRONG>. </P>
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<P>These increases average out to an approximate $900 increase or $800 increase per year, respectively.</P>
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<P>You all know, of course, that I cannot, and will not, tell you how to vote, who to vote for, or anything like that. All I ask, each and every November and May, is that you get out there and <STRONG>VOTE</STRONG>. </P>
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<P>See y'all at the polls! (At least, those in Lincoln District!)</P>
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