Adams County school districts agree to fund ACTI building through tax increase

In a recent Littlestown School Board meeting, the discussion turned to the pressing need for tax increases to support future building needs for the Adams County Technical Institute (ACTI). The rationale behind this decision was laid out clearly: just as homeowners take out mortgages to finance their homes, ACTI must borrow funds to cover its building expenses.

The five school districts that support ACTI share the responsibility of repaying this debt. For Littlestown, this translates to an estimated annual payment of around $500,000 over the next 20 years, based on a hypothetical $40 million loan. This long-term financial commitment is not a one-time expense; rather, it requires consistent funding to ensure the district can meet its obligations.

Interestingly, the board noted that last year, the district opted for a modest tax increase of just 1%. Many taxpayers, particularly those in areas like Olmstead Farmstead, experienced no actual increase in their tax payments. However, the looming possibility of rising construction costs could lead to higher bond and mortgage payments, potentially escalating Littlestown's total financial commitment to approximately $10 million over the two-decade span.

As the board navigates these financial waters, the implications of their decisions will resonate throughout the community, shaping the future of educational facilities and resources for years to come.