In a recent board meeting, trustees adopted a resolution to set the tax rate for 2024, establishing a maintenance and operations rate of 0.7101 per $100 of taxable assessed valuation, alongside an interest and sinking fund rate of 0.1830. This results in an overall tax rate of 0.8931 per $100 of taxable assessed valuation.

Trustee Harrison initiated the motion, which was seconded, but not without contention. Trustee Weston expressed concerns regarding the timing and the implications of the tax increase, highlighting that the district is projected to collect an additional $1.2 billion in taxes. However, this figure was clarified during the discussion, with officials confirming that the increase would actually amount to $1.8 million, not $1.2 billion.

Weston criticized the board's decision-making process, arguing that the tax rate could have been reduced if a smaller bond had been pursued. He emphasized the financial burden this tax rate places on families, noting that it would raise the district's debt per student to over $50,000. He expressed disappointment in the board's approach, suggesting that they missed an opportunity to demonstrate fiscal sensitivity to the community.

Despite the dissenting opinions, the motion passed with a vote of 5-2. The board then moved on to other agenda items, including superintendent reports, following the tax rate discussion.