The referendum rate on the ballot is a maximum rate. Who determines if a lower rate will be set?
The tax rate is set by the Hamilton Southeastern Schools (HSE) Board of Trustees, upon a recommendation from administrators who consider the district’s financial needs. The referendum renewal is for a maximum rate of 19.95 cents, a 12.3% reduction of the rate set by referendum in 2016. The referendum funds provide greater flexibility than other property taxes generated by the school corporation. This has allowed the school to have an overall rate lower than the first year of the referendum.