The Regional Report: Yawning deficit a challenge for Aitkin schools Although not yet finalized, the levy likely to be brought to voters would ask for funding equal to $850,000 to $900,000 annually for the next decade. 3:00 am, May 30, 2021 × The Aitkin water tower outside the Aitkin County Courthouse. Chelsey Perkins / Brainerd Dispatch file photo An $800,000 deficit headed into the 2021-22 school year is just one of the challenges facing the Aitkin School District, which plans to seek voter approval of a capital projects levy this fall, the Aitkin Independent Age reported Wednesday, May 26. Declining enrollment and reductions in state aid are contributing factors to the district’s financial woes. Although not yet finalized, the levy likely to be brought to voters would ask for funding equal to $850,000 to $900,000 annually for the next decade. Staffing cuts have begun in an attempt to chip away at the deficit, the Age reported.