Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) School board members have held several discussions this year about the expiration of the current operating referendum that goes away at the end of calendar year 2023, but now board members are expressing their views.  The consensus building among the 7 board members is to place on the November general election ballot a continuation of the current operating referendum property tax rate of .2275, which generates roughly $26 million per year for the local school district.

At a meeting of the Referendum Committee Wednesday morning, board member Suzanne Thomas expressed support of keeping the referendum rate the same when placed before voters.  She expressed the same view at a Wednesday evening work session with the entire board.

Ben Orr said he supports placing the current referendum rate before voters, because he cannot see a way to eliminate or cut the referendum rate without losing teaching positions.

Juanita Albright cited the activities and classes her own children are taking and voiced strong support for placing the current operating referendum rate on the ballot.

Board President Dawn Lang argued that a strong school system results in a demand for housing in the community and impacts property values.  She says it is important to support the school district through the referendum vote.

That indicates a majority of board members support placing a measure on the November ballot asking voters to continue the current operating referendum rate.

The board will be asked for a referendum consensus at the March 22 meeting to continue the process of placing the referendum question before voters.  A final vote is expected in June with the precise referendum ballot rate & language, which must by approved by the state.