Is the Board of Education considering a parcel tax?
Yes, the Board is considering the option of a parcel tax election. Local parcel tax revenue may be used for virtually any designated purpose. This is a tax on real estate parcels, not on the value of the parcels, and it must be approved by 2/3 of the voters. A parcel tax must also be renewed every few years in order for the assessment to continue. While a parcel tax ix one helpful tool to address ongoing severe budget deficits, it must be understood that no parcel tax can completely fix the kind of budget crisis in which public education now finds itself. Parcel taxes are often used to address preservation of particular programs such as arts, music, athletics, and libraries. The Board is currently considering options to work with a consulting firm or firms to assist with developing a strategy to evaluate the possibility of a successful parcel tax election next year.
