Richland School District 2 board approves 12-mill request for FY2026 after rejecting maximum millage

The Richland School District 2 Board of Trustees voted 4-3 on April 22 to submit a 12-mill property tax request to Richland County for the district’s FY2026 general fund budget, after rejecting a motion to request the district’s maximum millage.

Board members debated the size of the tax request and which staff and program needs to prioritize. Chief Financial Officer Ms. Williams told trustees the district is anticipating $6,323,252 in new state revenue and $1,521,375 in additional local revenue without a millage increase, bringing total anticipated recurring revenue without a millage increase to $7,844,627. She said that with a full (17‑mill) increase the district could anticipate up to $14,712,627 in recurring revenue.

The board split along affordability and service lines during the discussion. Board member Mrs. Nash warned about the tax burden on households and vehicle owners; Mr. Dennis said he “can’t support a max tax a max millage.” Board member Mrs. Williams and Superintendent Dr. Moore…