Northwest Allen County Schools updates property tax and operating referendum impact data

The Northwest Allen County Schools (NACS) Board convened on July 21, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding the district's operating referendum and its financial implications for local homeowners and landowners. The meeting aimed to provide clarity on how NACS compares to other school districts in terms of property tax revenue and to address community concerns about potential tax increases.

During the meeting, board members reviewed a fact sheet comparing NACS's property tax revenue per student with that of neighboring districts. NACS currently generates $1,414 in operating dollars per student from property tax revenue, significantly lower than several peer districts. For instance, Noblesville receives $3,403 per student, while Southwest Allen County Schools collects $965. This disparity highlights the financial challenges NACS faces in maintaining adequate funding for educational programs.

The board also presented projections on how a potential operating referendum could affect property taxes for local residents. They provided specific examples for homeowners and landowners, illustrating the expected changes in tax bills should the referendum pass. For a median-priced home valued at $350,000 in Perry Township, the tax bill would increase by approximately $505 annually if the referendum is approved, resulting in a total bill of $2,824. For landowners, the impact varies based on property size and assessed value, with one example showing an increase of $144.34 for a landowner with 39.6 acres.

To assist residents in understanding these changes, the district has launched a dedicated website featuring a property tax calculator. This tool allows homeowners and landowners to input their information and see the direct impact of the referendum on their taxes. The board emphasized their commitment to transparency and education, encouraging community members to utilize the resources available.

As the district prepares for the upcoming referendum, the board aims to ensure that voters are well-informed about the financial implications and the necessity of the proposed funding to support educational needs. The meeting concluded with an invitation for further questions and feedback from the community, reinforcing the board's dedication to open communication.