Commission puts 5-mill Ragland school tax on the ballot

The St. Clair County Commission voted to place a 5-mill school tax for the Ragland School Attendance and Tax District before district voters, adopting resolution 202619 at the request of the St. Clair County Board of Education. Commissioners moved and approved the resolution to schedule an election for residents in that tax district.

A companion resolution, described by staff as an acknowledgment of the county commission's authority, states that the commission could reduce or remit the tax if the school ultimately closes. A speaker representing Ragland and members of the Board of Education urged the commission to act, saying the measure is important to keep Ragland High School operating. One attendee told commissioners, "We all want Raglin High School to stay open." The commission approved putting the question to voters so district residents can decide.

The county attorney and commission staff said the companion resolution does not bind future commissions to specific actions; it is intended as a statement of legislative intent and recognition of the county's authority over the tax. The commission moved, seconded and voted to place the measure on the ballot. No roll-call vote tally was read into the record; the motion carried by voice vote.