Understanding the 251 Bond One Fact at a Time!
Fact #1: What is a Mill Levy?
A mill levy is the property tax used to help fund local schools and other public services.
Here's an easy way to think about it:
• A mill equals $1 of tax for every $1,000 of a property's assessed value—not its market value.
• The amount a homeowner pays depends on the assessed value of their property, not what they could sell it for.
• School bond payments are made through the district's bond and interest mill levy.
Why does it matter?
When a school bond is proposed, people often ask: “How will it affect the mill levy?"
The answer depends on factors such as:
• The cost of the project
• State aid
• The district's current debt
• Property valuations within the district
These factors determine whether the bond and interest mill levy changes and by how much.
Learn Before You Vote
Understanding what a mill levy is can help you make an informed decision about the future of USD 251.
Every question matters. Every vote matters.




