Anderson County board adopts 4% property tax rate with exonerations

The Anderson County School Board voted unanimously Aug. 12 to adopt a 4% property tax rate with exonerations for the 2024–25 year.

A district staff presenter laid out two options: the compensating rate (57.2) and the 4% rate (59.5 with exonerations). The presenter said the compensating rate would yield about $13.1 million in local tax revenue while the 4% option would bring in about $13.6 million — roughly $526,000 more than choosing the compensating rate. Scott Brown moved to adopt the 4% rate with exonerations; Steve Carmichel seconded the motion and the roll-call vote was unanimous (Jason Collins, Scott Brown, Steve Carmichel, Sunny Fant, James Sergeant).

Board members discussed the impact on homeowners and the presentation included example tax bills (a $100,000 assessed home would see a projected school tax of $595 under the 4% scenario versus $572 under the compensating rate). The presenter also noted a possible state funding opportunity: districts that record certain assessment growth and adopt the 4% rate in consecutive years may qualify for additional state aid; staff said Anderson County may be close to meeting the threshold.

Board members emphasized they were lowering the overall rate compared with historical highs even though the 4% label is often described publicly as an "increase." In the board’s words, adopting 4% is intended to help the district cover rising costs (staff raises, insurance, nurses and other expenses) and preserve services while maintaining compliance with state budgeting guidance.

The board will publish final rate documents and any required notices to the public per Kentucky Department of Education procedures.