Rockdale County residents demand action against high taxes and failing schools

Concerns over underfunded schools and high taxes dominated the first public hearing on House Bill 581 held by Rockdale County Public Schools on February 13, 2025. Community members voiced their frustrations, emphasizing the urgent need for action to address the educational and economic challenges facing the county.

One speaker passionately criticized the current state of schools, stating, "It is incoherent to talk about failing schools and decreasing funding to those schools at the same time." This sentiment echoed throughout the meeting, highlighting a growing frustration with the perceived blame game surrounding educational failures. The speaker called for collective responsibility, urging the community to unite in support of students and schools.

Another participant raised alarm over the county's high taxes, linking them to a significant outflow of residents. "515,000 people have moved away from Florida because of these problems," they noted, suggesting that Rockdale County risks losing its own residents for similar reasons. The speaker pointed out a stark increase in homes for sale, from the usual 200 to 719, indicating a potential exodus driven by financial concerns.

The urgency of the situation was palpable as speakers warned that if families are forced to leave due to high taxes, the consequences could be dire. "What are you going to do with the kids if the parents are going to lose their homes?" one speaker asked, foreseeing a rise in homelessness and crime if the trend continues.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for the school board and county officials to prioritize attracting businesses and creating economic opportunities. The community's future, they argued, hinges on addressing these pressing issues, ensuring that both students and families can thrive in Rockdale County.