Morrison schools to discuss tax hike

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MORRISON - As schools in Whiteside County continue to ponder whether to push for a 1 percent sales tax referendum on the November ballot, the Morrison School District is holding an informational session at Tuesday's board meeting.

Jamie Rachlin, the district's public financier, will make a presentation Tuesday about the proposed sales tax referendum and how it could impact area schools if passed.

Rachlin made a similar presentation Thursday to county school board members, administrators, government officials and the public.

Superintendent Suellen Girard said the board had not decided what position to take on the proposed referendum.

"I think this is something the Morrison School District needs to look seriously at before we make a decision," she said.

The law, passed last year, allows counties to levy up to a 1 percent sales tax increase to help pay for school infrastructure needs, such as building maintenance, if voters approve. The tax does not apply to food, medicine or anything that requires a title, such as cars or farm equipment.

School boards that represent at least 51 percent of a county's student population can vote to place the referendum on a ballot, as can a county board.

In Whiteside County, a 1 percent sales tax increase could generate nearly $4 million a year, which would be split among the districts based on student population.

The Morrison School District has roughly 1,161 students enrolled. If the referendum passes, the school district could receive more than $496,767.

Girard said the extra money could possibly reduce property tax rates, and the district likely would use the money to fund more capital projects without taking out as many debt bonds.

"The district has quite a few bonds out right now that does impact property taxes paid by the citizens," Girard said. "I think we need to look at whether the sales tax would be beneficial."

Girard added the board also will decide Tuesday whether to hold a special meeting in August to decide whether it will support the referendum in November.

The board also will discuss the tentative 2008-2009 budget.

The Morrison Community School District Board of Education will meet at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at Morrison High School, 643 Genesee Ave. The board will discuss the proposed 1 percent sales tax referendum and the tentative 2008-2009 budget.