Lee's Summit R‑VII board approves Prop C rollback election after debate over ballot language and tax impact

The Lee's Summit R‑VII Board of Education voted to approve a resolution calling a Proposition C rollback election aimed at restoring a levy waiver that would fund staff salaries and benefits.

Superintendent Doctor Buck told the board the measure would be used “100% for salaries and benefits,” and offered a concrete example of potential impact: “If this had been a full waiver, if you had a $100,000 house, that's $23.90,” said Doctor Buck, illustrating how a restored waiver could affect taxpayers in a given year. Vice President Miller moved to place the measure on the April ballot; the board approved the resolution on a 5–2 vote.

The vote capped a lengthy discussion about whether ballot language should explicitly say the measure would raise taxes. Board Member Haley said she supported Prop C’s purpose but urged the board to give voters clearer wording. “I'm not in any way opposed to putting Prop C on the ballot. I'm opposed to lack of transparency from the board and the administration to tell people what the really, their tax bill is gonna go up,” Haley said.

Other board members argued that adding explanatory language could make the ballot confusing or legally imprecise. Board Member Dawson said changing the standard language recommended by bond counsel risked misleading voters. “I do respectfully disagree with changing the language on the ballot,” Dawson said, arguing the counsel-recommended wording is the clear, legally vetted option.

Doctor Buck and district staff also distinguished Prop C from bond funding. Buck said bond proceeds can be used only for capital projects, not operating costs such as salaries, and that Prop C funds would address the district’s operating levy shortfall, where 81–85% of spending typically goes to employee compensation.

The board was advised by outside bond counsel on ballot wording and informed that the finalized language must be submitted to election boards by January 27. With the resolution approved, district staff will submit the language and election materials to the appropriate election authorities.

Votes at a glance

- Motion to approve resolution calling a Proposition C rollback election: approved, 5–2. - Transfer of $4,231,222.72 from the general fund to the special revenue fund: approved (voice vote). - Treasurer’s report and payment of bills: approved (voice vote). - Approval of the 2024–25 annual audit (no findings reported): approved (voice vote). - Consent agenda: approved (voice vote).

What happens next

After the board's action, administrators will finalize materials for the ballot and begin public outreach (including planned informational presentations and community dinners) to explain how the levy change would be used. The district expects the election to appear on the April ballot following submission of final language to election authorities by late January.

Sources: Superintendent Doctor Buck; Board Members Haley and Dawson; board discussion and vote at the December board meeting.