Kansas City, Missouri – Residents of the Park Hill School District will vote on two important tax increase measures in an important election on April 8 that promise to change how schools operate for the foreseeable future. After decades without major tax changes, the district’s decision follows efforts to improve school facilities and raise teacher pay.
Among the items on the ballot, Proposition G suggests a 10 cent rise in operational property tax per $100 of assessed property value. Expected to bring in about $6 million yearly, the money from this plan is set aside only to raise teacher pay. Hailing a long-standing need for additional and fairer reward for teachers inside the district, this project is the first effort to increase the operating tax since 2002.
On the other hand, Proposition O seeks voter consent to increase the debt service tax by another 30 cents for every $100 of assessed value. The district would be able to sell bonds totaling $128 million with this rise. These bonds’ revenues would mostly finance the rehabilitation of current buildings and the building of new facilities.
Specifically, this covers the initial stage of Park Hill High School’s replacement as well as improvements to the athletic fields and stadiums at both Park Hill High and Park Hill South. The plan involves changes to fit different high school activities as well as additions and upgrades to Chinn, Line Creek, and Southeast Elementary Schools. Furthermore, some of the money would be used to strengthen security throughout the campuses of the district.
For district residents, the financial consequences are significant. Homeowners can look forward a rise in their yearly property taxes should both proposals get voter endorsement. For example, the owner of a $100,000 house would pay an extra $76 per year, whereas those with a $300,000 home will see a $228 yearly rise. Owners of more expensive homes, like a $500,000 one, would pay an additional $380 yearly.
For the Park Hill School District, which underlines the need of these funds to sustain and improve the quality of education under increasing expectations and evolving educational standards, these suggested modifications arrive at a turning point. The district has published thorough information on both proposals online, providing voters all the required tools to make informed decisions regarding the future of their local education system.
Community members are asked to consider the possible effects and advantages as the election draws near since the results of these proposals could significantly impact the educational experiences of both current and future Park Hill School District students.
