Big Spring board sets proposed budget, approves 3.5% tax‑increase ceiling after heated debate

The Big Spring School Board voted on May 4 to designate a proposed final budget that sets a ceiling of a 3.5% real‑estate tax increase and a millage rate of 16.8585, after extended public comment and a lengthy discussion among board members about reserves, past surpluses and program priorities.

Administration presented the proposed final budget with expenditures of $67,110,743 and noted the board must set a proposed final budget at least 30 days before final adoption. The materials showed a projected shortfall covered by unassigned fund balance (the packet listed $36,165 under that line), and board members debated whether to adopt the 3.5% ceiling now or wait for more detail. One board member urged a smaller increase or deeper cuts, calling for targeted program reductions if the community preferred lower taxes; others argued that state funding timing, rising special‑education costs and utility price volatility justify a cushion in the budget.

During public comment and board discussion, residents and board members disputed whether the district previously ran persistent surpluses and whether prior tax increases had been spent on noninstructional items. The board held a roll‑call vote; the tally resulted in a tie that the board chair broke in favor of the proposed budget. The motion passed with five votes in favor and four opposed. The board noted it can reduce (but not increase) the tax rate at the June 8 final adoption meeting.

"I have to break the tie. And at this time I would vote yes knowing that we could reduce the number or that we could adjust the number at the June 8th meeting," the chair said when casting the deciding vote. The district will publish the proposed final budget for the required public‑inspection period and revisit the line items before final adoption.