Council schedules public hearing on proposed 5-mil school tax after resident questions allocation

The City of Clay held the first reading of Ordinance 26-02, which would levy an additional 5-mil ad valorem tax inside city limits to create a designated fund for public-education purposes. No final action was taken; the council scheduled a public hearing for May 12 to gather public input and finalize details.

During public comment, Maureen Thompson asked for a clear breakdown of how the money would be used and whether it would go to sports, staffing, facility needs or other priorities. Thompson also asked whether all schools in the local feeder pattern would be eligible; staff clarified that funds would be limited to the four schools physically inside the city limits and that the ordinance 26-01 process would define application details and allowable uses.

Council members said ordinance 26-01 will supply the application and accountability requirements for outside agencies and schools that seek funding, and that staff will bring more detailed budget proposals to the May 12 public hearing so the council can approve or reject specific uses. One resident noted that the city holds substantial reserves and questioned whether the tax was needed; councilors said both the ordinance and the forthcoming application forms are intended to ensure transparency and appropriately earmark funds.