Duval School Board Weighing Property Tax Hike Option

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- The Duval County School Board is facing a decision on balancing the needs of the classroom with the ability of taxpayers to absorb a property tax increase.

Lawmakers this year are allowing school districts the ability to levy an extra 1/4 mill property tax to support education.

In Jacksonville, the tax hike, if approved, would generate about $15 million for local schools.

School boards can adopt the tax for one year, but beyond that the tax would have to go on the ballot.

"That represents about $28 per household. I think that is significant," said Tommy Hazouri, school board chairman.

Board member Stan Jordan is not quick to endorse going after more money from taxpayers.

"While we have done some pruning on the tree, I don't think the pruning has yet reached the level to go out and tax the people, particularly in this window," said Jordan.

Duval County schools estimate the current shortfall in funding at $44 million.

The school board is poised to consider the property tax increase during its next meeting in July.

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