journal news
Schools may require tax hike Greenville County taxpayers could see a tax increase of 3 mills under a budget that has received preliminary approval from the Greenville County School Board. The budget could change before a public hearing and second reading scheduled for May 30. The school district blames underfunded state mandates and growth in the student population for the increase. If the 3-mill increase becomes final, the owner of a $20,000 car would pay $3.60 more in property taxes. The general operating budget millage increase would have no effect on homeowners’ property taxes. The owners of rental houses and commercial property would see a tax hike. In addition, the school board is considering a 5-mill tax increase for debt service, a tax hike that would affect all county property owners. The debt service budget will be considered separately from the operating budget. District officials have said the debt service millage increase is necessary to pay for technology upgrades, building mainte-
nance, enhanced school security, career center renovations and athletic facility improvements. Superintendent Burke Royster recommended the 3-mill tax increase, which would generate $3.15 million. Royster also recommended using $10.7 million of the district’s fund balance to balance the budget. The budget includes a 2 percent pay raise for employees and increases in the employer-paid portion of retirement and health insurance. It also includes $3.85 million for additional teachers and school support staff positions needed to handle the extra 1,290 students expected to attend Greenville County Schools next year. In addition, the budget includes $291,000 for personnel needed to prepare for the August 2014 opening of Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School. Two new technical support positions are included. The budget calls for $750,000 in school security enhancements.
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MAY 17, 2013 | the Journal 11