Based on the discussion at Monday night’s school board work session, the Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools will likely ask voters to approve a reduced operating referendum rate when the proposal appears on the November 7 ballot.  The current referendum rate of .2275 was approved overwhelmingly by voters in 2016.  That referendum expires at the end of 2023.

The board is expected to vote on the rate and exact language to appear on the ballot at the July 12 board session.

Referendum Consultant Steve Klink and HSE Schools Chief Financial Officer Katy Dowling presented 3 scenarios on which rate to place on the ballot.  One would reduce the current referendum rate by 10%, the second by 12.2% and the third by 15.8%.  Dowling recommends the board consider the second option and most board members appeared to agree, although no vote was taken.

That option would ask voters to approve a referendum rate of .1997, resulting in a reduction in the amount generated by the referendum of $1.737 million annually.

LarryInFishers asked Ms. Dowling if her recommended scenario would result in staff reductions, she responded that at this time, it would not impact the teaching staff.  However, an internal committee would study ways to save money and increase efficiencies in other areas.

Referendum consultant Klink told the board if this referendum vote fails in November, the board must wait 2 years to attempt another operating tax rate, unless a petition is filed successfully, allowing another vote in 1 year.

It should also be noted that there is a capital referendum rate established in 2013 when voters approved the funding for the College and Career Academy buildings in each high school.  That referendum rate is .1077 and is not subject to a renewal vote.