During a recent public hearing, the Nassau County School Board addressed the rollback rate and proposed millage rates for the upcoming fiscal year. The rollback rate, which is designed to generate the same revenue as the previous year, was set at 6.1436. However, the board has proposed a millage rate of 6.329, reflecting a 3.02% increase from the rollback rate.

The board highlighted that the total proposed rate is still below last year's rate of 6.46. This year, the funding formula is expected to provide approximately $450,000 from state sources, contributing to the overall budget discussions that have been ongoing through several workshops.

Public participation was encouraged, and one speaker, Sherish Desai, raised concerns regarding the increase in her tax bill despite the previous year's millage increase and a reported surplus of $13 million. Desai expressed disappointment that the anticipated decrease in school-related taxes did not materialize and requested a reconciliation of the surplus funds.

Board members acknowledged Desai's concerns, explaining that the increase in taxable property values—up by 18%—contributed to the higher tax bills. They confirmed that the surplus funds exceeded the budget requirements from the previous year, prompting Desai's request for clarity on the allocation of these excess funds.

The meeting underscored the complexities of school funding and the impact of property valuations on local tax bills, as the board continues to navigate budgetary challenges while addressing community concerns.