We, the undersigned, as taxpayers and residents within the borders of White Bear Lake Area School District demand full transparency regarding the financials of the “Building Our Future” construction projects to include both the bond referendum approved in 2019 of $326 million  and Long-Term Facilities and Maintenance (LTFM) Funds used in the project which appear to exceed $100 million.

As dedicated taxpayers and residents within the borders of White Bear Lake Area School District, we have a vested interest in how our funds are allocated and utilized, particularly when it comes to the education of our children. Recently, numerous concerns have arisen regarding the “Building Our Future” school construction projects, prompting questions about transparency, accountability, and financial stewardship.

Education is the cornerstone of our community, and the construction and renovation of our school infrastructure should reflect our collective commitment to providing a safe and conducive learning environment for every student. However, there have been unsettling reports involving budget overruns, and inconsistencies that warrant immediate attention and action.

According to data available from the Kraus Anderson website, multiple construction projects have significantly changed from the original plan as presented to and approved by taxpayers in 2019 which has resulted in exceeding their original budgets by significant margins, with some projects still in progress. For instance, the recently completed high school was reported to be over budget by nearly 50% as compared with the original plan.  The community has received no information on the costs.  This not only raises questions about financial oversight but also fiscal responsibility.

There are also significant concerns based on the district’s independent auditor findings over the last five years during its mandated annual audits.  The district has had thirteen significant findings of material weaknesses in its financials or noncompliance with federal and state laws from 2019-2024 including findings related to construction costs accounting.  In 2024, a “Special Purpose Audit Reports” found a material weakness in its internal accounting controls and the district was not considered a “low risk” auditee (the district is the auditee).  All of this information is publicly available on the district’s website under the Finance Department tab – “Audited Financial Reports”. 

A forensic audit conducted by an independent and reputable firm will provide an in-depth examination of financial records and construction practices, ensuring every dollar spent is accounted for, and identifying any potential misuse of funds. This step is crucial to restoring public confidence, ensuring accountability, and establishing trust in future projects.  This should include but is not limited to the $326 million building bond as well as any Long-Term Facilities and Maintenance money that has been used to complete the projects.

We urge the school board - Chair Arcand, Board Members Thompson, Daniels, Ellison, Streiff Oji,  Beloyed, and Skaar to consider the urgency to provide the public with a complete reconciliation of all construction costs to the original budget costs to actual (or final forecasted) costs and initiate an independent forensic audit of the school construction projects under “Building Our Future” without further delay.

By signing this petition, you join me and others in advocating for transparency, accountability, and responsible use of taxpayer dollars in our community's educational infrastructure. Let's work together to ensure that our schools are built on a foundation of integrity and trust. Please sign the petition to support this cause.