In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposed $30 million bond aimed at addressing infrastructure needs within the Lewis Central School District. This proposal comes after a previous $90 million bond for a new elementary school and middle school addition failed to gain community support. Feedback indicated a need for a more affordable approach, prompting the board to break down the project into smaller, more manageable pieces.

The bond is expected to cover essential infrastructure improvements, with the community's tax burden being a significant consideration. Officials noted that property tax valuations have varied across the district, leading to different tax impacts for residents. For instance, some homeowners in the city experienced tax reductions, while those in the county saw increases due to rising property valuations.

To assist residents in understanding their potential tax liabilities, a tax calculator has been made available on the district's bond website. This tool allows homeowners to input their property valuations and estimate their annual tax contributions. For an average home valued at $300,000, the estimated annual tax increase would be approximately $134, while a home valued at $150,000 would see an increase of around $64.

The meeting also highlighted the financial implications if the bond does not pass. Without the additional funding, the district may face difficult decisions regarding budget allocations, potentially impacting resources for student technology and classroom materials. Officials emphasized that funds from a general obligation bond can only be used for district-owned property, not for salaries or operational costs.

Comparative tax rates were discussed, revealing that Lewis Central's current rate of $10.28 per $1,000 is significantly lower than neighboring districts, where rates can exceed $15. The proposed bond would raise this rate to approximately $11.28, still keeping it among the lowest in the area.

As the district continues to grow, officials stressed the importance of community support for the bond to ensure necessary improvements can be made without compromising educational resources. The board is committed to maintaining a balance between funding infrastructure and keeping tax rates manageable for residents.