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Bay County, Fla:
Bay District’s School Board may take money from your wallet, as they look to increase property tax. But they’ve given money, too. The school board cut millions and they’re still faced with a $300,000 deficit.
They’ve changed little things like the reuse of notebooks, to big thing like the elimination of 118 positions. The cuts do add up but they’re still not enough.
“We do not want to hurt children, anymore than we already have done,” said Jerry Register, School Board Member.
To make up for the deficit, they want you to pay higher property taxes.
“We already got enough taxes we have to pay,” said Sherry Weisensale, Bay County resident.
“I do tell taxpayers, we’re sorry, but this is something we must do,” said Register.
Over the past two years, bay’s school district reduced the budget by $25 million. They’ve lowered salaries, they’ve cut positions, and they’ve even closed schools, like A.D. Harris that have been here for years.
“We knew we were going to have to cut, but we didn’t know that we were going to have to cut as deeply,” said Register.
At a meeting on Thursday, School Board members weighed their options. But, raising taxes may be their only solution.
“You know during this process, if we find other areas to cut, we need to do so. But in the meantime, it’s our responsibility to run a wonderful, quality school system,” said Register.
“I think anything they can do to help and improve the children’s learning and education is what we need to do,” said Dorothy Llewellyn, Bay County resident.
That’s why School Board members say, if residents want the best, the may have to deal with a worst case scenario. And that’s, higher taxes.
If the tax increase for homeowners passes, the school board would collect about $8 million.
More savings can come from not hiring back those in DROP. Once you are retired then you can’t be hired back. Let them volunteer or substitute, we certainly need more volunteers and subs. School Board members, who already have substantial income from other places can work pro-bono to enhance the schools for the children. These are just a few of the ways that can help reduce the amount of out-going funds and put it back into the classroom. Re-use textbooks for longer periods of time. If textbook supplements are needed then get them in paperback inserts much like what the AMA and all law journals have. I’m sure there are other ways as well. We as a community need to educate ourselves as to how to re-cycle and re-use items in our schools. There are a lot of us out there that can make a difference if we all try. Remember, our children are the future so we need to teach them well. All must pay not just the property owner. Renters/leasers of homes must pay also. A sales tax hits everyone.
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Thank you Ms Bird for those constructive ideas. Interestingly enough,many people have ideas that if implemented,could help in the resolution of our dilemma. Why is it the elected officials always come up with the same old song and dance. MORE TAXES…The taxpayers need to tell Mr. Register,as they vote him out the door,“Sorry,Jerry old boy,but this is something we must do”. Have a nice day!!!