Centerville officials warn property-tax reform could cut local revenues; urge balanced approach
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Summary
District leaders presented data showing how proposed statewide property-tax reforms could shift tax burdens to homeowners and reduce funding for schools and other local entities. Presenters urged residents to contact legislators and called for reforms that preserve essential local services.
District leaders presented modeling and local context Oct. 27 to show how proposals under consideration at the Statehouse could affect Centerville City Schools and other local public entities.
Presenters emphasized that roughly 84% of the district's general fund revenue comes from property taxes, with about 77% paid directly by local taxpayers and about 7% coming as a reimbursement from the state for older levies. "The state foundation formula only contributes 12% of our operating revenue," a presenter said while showing comparative per-pupil state revenue figures.
Presenters reviewed long-term shifts in local funding sources, including elimination of the business tangible personal property tax and reductions in state rollback and homestead reimbursement. They said those changes have increased homeowners' shares of school funding over time and noted that if the state were to replace local levies with a state-collected mill or per-pupil payment, the net effect on any specific district would depend on formula design and phase-in rules.
The district outlined impacts to partner local entities (parks, township, police and fire) and urged constituents to contact state legislators. A district webpage and a "call to action" link were cited as resources for contacting elected officials.
Presenters framed the board and community as aligned in seeking "balanced reform" that protects homeowners while preserving local services and school programs.