Independence Local Schools have placed two issues on the November 7, 2023 ballot.
The first issue is the renewal of an 8.19 mill levy that was last passed 12 years ago. This levy provides $4.2 million annually to provide for the operation of the school district. Currently, it costs the owner of a $100,000 home around $250/year. The renewal of this levy will not increase taxes. This current levy expires in 2023 and will produce revenue through 2024.
The second levy is a 3.85 mill levy that will raise approximately $2 million for the district. This will cost the homeowner of a $100,000 home around $134.75/year.
These two levies represent a change from the single levy that was placed on the May ballot. The additional levy is $1 million less that what was initially proposed. Based on input from the community, this levy does not include any additional programming.
The district, which serves 1,100 students, is running a deficit for the third year in a row as costs continue to rise and the funding no longer covers expenses. Both levies would be for 10 years and will cover approximately 20% of the district’s operating expenses.
These monies fund programs, resources and general operations such as…
Academic advancement: Enhance classroom learning experiences, develop rigorous curricula, and provide access to new educational technology.
Student support services: Enable the hiring and retention of skilled counselors, psychologists, and support staff, ensuring students receive the assistance they need to thrive academically and emotionally.
Extracurricular activities: Support a diverse range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports programs, fostering a well-rounded and balanced education for our students.
Infrastructure and maintenance: Facilitate necessary repairs and upgrades to school facilities, ensuring a safe and conducive environment for learning and growth.
Recruitment and professional development: Recruitment and training of talented educators to enable the district to maintain a high standard of instruction and create an inspiring learning atmosphere.
Should either levy fail, the district will need to make budget adjustments and seek input from residents as to next steps.
