The Burlington Community School Board held a public hearing Monday on its proposed FY27 property tax levy, which would increase by 22 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation.
Board President Anika McVay said the rate was lowered from earlier estimates following changes to state school funding. The proposed levy now sits at $16.19 per $1,000—down 56 cents from the original $16.75—and represents a smaller increase than last year’s 78-cent jump.
The Hawk Eye reports that several community members spoke during the hearing, raising concerns about the financial strain of higher taxes. Many cited rising costs for gas, utilities, and groceries, along with stagnant incomes. One business owner said her property taxes have climbed from $28,000 to $46,000 over the past three years, while a retiree said he may need to return to full-time work to afford living in Burlington. Speakers urged the board to find cost-saving measures instead of passing expenses onto taxpayers. Board members did not respond during the hearing due to state rules, though Superintendent Robert Scott later noted the district is cutting $975,000 from this year’s budget and more than $3.5 million in spending over the past three years.
