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Residents urge Big Spring board to reject or reduce tax hike, cite households unable to pay
Summary
Several residents told the board the proposed tax increase would harm families already delinquent on property taxes and asked the board to use reserves or cut spending rather than raise rates.
Multiple residents used the board's public‑comment periods on June 8 to press the Big Spring School District not to raise property taxes.
Lisa Shade, who said she is running for the school board, criticized the prospect of higher taxes and warned that families "can't afford food during the summer" and that parents might not seek help because of pride. "We're looking at parents that can't afford food during the summer for their children," Shade said during the meeting, urging the board to seek different budget choices.
Sharp McDonald told the board there are 297 households across the district already unable to pay property taxes, listing township‑level delinquency counts and saying the problem could render families homeless if not considered in board decisions. "That is a crisis that could render families and seniors homeless," McDonald said. Another commenter asked the administration to explain a $75,000 transfer from contracted psychological and behavioral services into a general professional‑services account; the board acknowledged the question and asked administration to follow up.
Speakers repeatedly urged the board to consider reserves, capital‑reserve transfers, or internal reductions rather than shifting more costs to taxpayers, and several described the impact on retired residents and households on fixed incomes. The board heard these comments prior to debate of the 2026–27 budget and referenced them during the ensuing deliberations.
