Mill Levy Override Exploration 2026
MLO Exploration Overview
To continue providing a high-quality education for students, Hanover School District No. 28 is asking voters to approve a permanent, 4-mill Mill Levy Override (MLO) — the district's first ever — on the November 2026 ballot to help retain and recruit qualified teachers and staff. This local solution will help Hanover address a persistent competitive disadvantage against neighboring districts and support the long-term stability of our schools.
Great teachers are critical to student success. As a small, rural district, Hanover faces real challenges attracting and keeping qualified staff when neighboring districts can offer higher salaries and stronger benefits. Without a dedicated, locally controlled source of funding for staff compensation, that gap is only going to widen.
Key Facts
WHAT IS AN MLO?
A mill levy override is a local property tax, approved directly by voters, that funds a school district's operating budget outside of state per-pupil funding. It stays entirely local.
HOW MUCH DOES IT RAISE?
An estimated $231,788 in the first full fiscal year (tax year 2026, collected in 2027), and annually thereafter whatever a 4-mill levy generates.
WHY NOW?
Hanover has never asked voters for an override. Neighboring districts already have one, which lets them out-compete Hanover on teacher pay.
HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?
Permanently, with no expiration date — so the district can make long-term commitments to teachers and staff.