During the Mid-State Technical College (MSTC) Board of Directors meeting held Monday evening, the Board authorized $20,557,441 for the 2011-12 property tax levy, representing an overall mill rate of $1.70 per $1,000 of equalized property value. The levy will be distributed to the 97 municipalities located within MSTC's district boundaries. Each municipality’s share is determined by the equalized values that are certified by the Department of Revenue.

According to Nelson Dahl, Vice President of Finance, the 2011-12 budget's real dollar impact on a taxpayer living in the MSTC District, who has a $100,000 home, is $170 for MSTC services, reflecting a total $5 increase from the previous year. “The focus of MSTC’s budget is to maintain programs and services to meet student, employer and community expectations,” said Dahl. He added that the College has a considerably lower impact than other taxing jurisdictions because MSTC serves a broader tax base with the 97 municipalities.

Patrick Costello, Board Treasurer and Chair of the Finance & Audit Committee, reported a shift in taxes levied by counties and underlying municipalities caused by changes in their property values. Overall, property values have decreased for three consecutive years.

Dr. Sue Budjac, MSTC President, said as technologies evolve and employer needs change, it is imperative that MSTC educational programs and facilities remain current and that our faculty continue to provide essential education and training to students. “MSTC is a vital community resource because of our budgetary investments; it is critical that the College continue to invest in the economic development of our region.” said Dr. Budjac.

The strength of MSTC's occupational and training programs is evidenced by the fact that in 2010-11 nearly 9,000 individuals enrolled at MSTC. “Even during these turbulent economic conditions, 85% of our graduates were employed within six months of graduation, with 75% employed in their field of choice,” said Dr. Budjac. She added that graduates appreciate the smaller class sizes and hands-on learning they received from instructors, as 96% report being satisfied or very satisfied with their MSTC education and training. “This budget provides the resources necessary to educate students and meet local economic development and workforce training needs.”

MSTC’s 2011-2012 Budget Booklet

The next Mid-State Technical College Board of Directors meeting will be held Monday, November 21 at the Marshfield Campus. Committee meetings are scheduled to begin at 4:15 p.m., with the regular Board meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m.