Three school districts consider raising taxes

Three local school districts are considering asking voters for more money, and a fourth wants to change how some is allocated.

None of the plans is certain, however.

School districts have until July 25 to let El Paso County election officials know if they will have a question on the ballot in November.

ACADEMY SCHOOL DISTRICT 20

In Academy School District 20, the tax rate would remain the same, but voters might be asked to allow the district to spend the money differently.

Some tax money is being used to pay off bonds early. If the board moves forward with a ballot question, voters would be asked if some of the money can instead be used in the general fund.

Bonds would still be paid, but it will take about 20 years rather than 15 or 16 years. The money diverted to the general fund could be used to hire more teachers and increase salaries.

Regardless of whether there is an election question and whether or not it passes, the amount of property tax that goes to schools won't change, Superintendent Mark Hatchell said.

LEWIS-PALMER SCHOOL DISTRICT 38

The school board in Lewis-Palmer School District 38 plans to ask voters to increase taxes in November, but details aren't complete.

A public work session will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday at the district administration building, 146 Jefferson St., Monument, to discuss how much money to ask for from voters and how it could be spent.

Making sure teachers' salaries are competitive with surrounding districts is a priority, said Robin Adair, district spokeswoman. A tax increase could also be used to fund student programs.

COLORADO SPRINGS SCHOOL DISTRICT 11

Colorado Springs School District 11 officials recently presented a list of items that could be financed by a mill levy override, ranging from employee salary increases to air conditioning for school buildings.

Board members were receptive to some items and not so interested in others.

They were concerned about whether the community could afford a tax increase and wanted to gauge support from community leaders.

Administrators plan to bring a scaled-back list to board members for more discussion about a mill levy override.

HARRISON SCHOOL DISTRICT 2

Discussions about a possible mill levy override in Harrison School District 2 are in the early stages, said district spokeswoman Jennifer Sprague, and are as much about "building community" as discussing money.

Superintendent Mike Miles talked about a possible override at a recent breakfast meeting with community members, noting money could help keep teachers' salaries competitive and pay for technology and security.