The Christian County Clerk’s Office has verified enough signatures submitted by the Citizens Right to Vote on Tax Increases group to put the Christian County School Board’s proposed nickel tax rate increase on an election ballot.
Elections Coordinator Melinda Humphries says they have certified 2,362 signatures—which is 136 more than the required total.
Humphries says they thoroughly examined each signature to ensure its authenticity.
The ballot question would simply ask voters if they favor or oppose the property tax increase, which would cost the owner of a $100,000 home an extra $55 annually. The school system says new revenue gained from the tax hike would be used for bonding on construction of a new academic building at Hopkinsville High School.
The school board will now have to make a decision on whether spend $70,000 for a special election on the ballot question or if they want to wait until the November general election, which would not cost any funds.
Board members discussed seeking private donations to hold a special election at its meeting last month, but did not take any action.