Newly released documents and internal communications are raising questions about whether the Elmbrook School Board has been moving toward a facilities referendum before formally deciding whether one is necessary.
Meeting records and agenda materials indicate that, under Board President Scott Wheeler, the board has approved a series of steps commonly associated with preparing for a referendum. These include advancing a long-term facilities framework and authorizing processes related to architect and construction manager selection.
Such actions are typically taken by school districts shortly before placing a funding proposal on the ballot, even though Elmbrook leaders have continued to describe the work as “facility planning.”
District data from a 2023 facilities review conducted by Eppstein Uhen Architects showed generally positive conditions across the district. The assessment found buildings rated “very good” compared to peer districts, with facilities described as functional and safety conditions rated as good.
Despite those findings, later presentations shifted focus toward large-scale renovation and replacement options. One scenario included replacing Pilgrim Park Middle School at an estimated cost of $128 million.
Internal emails from July 2025 further suggest that administrators discussed strategies to emphasize minimal tax impact from a potential referendum. In those messages, a public finance adviser cautioned that a “no-impact” scenario would be difficult to achieve and recommended either reducing the project scope or delaying issuance.
Records indicate that these warnings were discussed internally, raising concerns among some residents about whether the full range of financial risks was shared with the entire board and the public. (RELATED: Steil Unveils “MEGA Act,” a Sweeping Federal Push for Voter ID, Paper Ballots, and Tighter Election Rules)
District leaders have discussed potential referendum ranges between $80 million and more than $105 million, with internal references to long-term needs reaching as high as $150 million. Documents also note the possibility of additional referendums within five years and warn that a new bond issue could reduce certain state aid payments.
As board president, Wheeler plays a central role in setting agendas, guiding discussions, and determining how information is presented. Meeting minutes show the board steadily advancing planning, procurement, and financing steps while fundamental questions about whether a referendum is warranted remain unresolved.
The issue comes as newly elected board members prepare to take office in April 2026. Those members are expected to play a key role in deciding whether a facilities proposal is placed before voters, potentially committing taxpayers to decades of repayment.
Community members have called for greater transparency before any final decision is made, asking whether current proposals address critical needs or optional projects, and whether the board has received complete financial and operational information.
The Elmbrook School District has not announced a timeline for a final referendum decision. (RELATED: Court Records Detail Open Meetings Law Violations in Elmbrook School Board Appointment)