Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Millage Ballot topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board previews 1‑mill ballot drive for 2026; members stress simple, safety‑focused language
Summary
Board members discussed placing a 1‑mill property tax renewal on the 2026 ballot to fund school safety and security, emphasizing the need for clear ballot language so voters understand the money will support the sheriff contract and safety improvements rather than unspecified 'general fund' uses.
Board members discussed moving forward with a proposed 1‑mill property‑tax measure for 2026 that would fund school safety and security programs, and they emphasized the importance of precise ballot language to secure voter trust.
Members said the district’s contract with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office for school resource deputies depends on the millage and that voters repeatedly asked for clear, limited language specifying safety, security and related facility improvements. One board member said she voted against an earlier millage in part because the ballot language was too broad; board members agreed the attorneys will draft the formal resolution and ballot language for later approval by the board.
A member urged the board to present a united front in public outreach and to compile past spending records showing how prior mill proceeds were used. Members suggested the campaign include education about what “operations” means in a safety context (for example, gates, access control and front‑office upgrades) to reduce voter confusion over the phrase “general fund.”
The discussion stressed timing and messaging: members said the attorney will prepare the draft language, which the board must later approve before placement on the ballot. They also suggested a public outreach campaign involving the sheriff’s office and the superintendent to explain the safety needs and the consequences of a failed millage (including the potential loss of sheriff coverage in schools).
