The Kaskaskia College Board Monday night agreed to hold a Truth in Taxation Hearing so they can increase their property tax levy more than five-percent.
President George Evans says a 7.8-percent increase is being sought to capture revenue from a very large increase in assessed valuation across the college district. But he doesn’t expect an impact on those who have not had their assessments raised. In fact, the owner of a $100,000 home with no changes is likely to see a $12.50 decrease in the portion of their bill going towards the college.
Evans says if the college gets its full $13.5-million tax levy request, it would mean two million dollars in new revenue.
“Community College system is without a doubt one of the most fiscally responsible across the state. The original intent was to fund as 1/3, 1/3, 1/3. A third on students for tuition, a third on state and a third on property taxes and the KC District has been under 22% of our property tax owners for the last 10 years if not longer. I think we have proven to our local residents and district members how fiscally responsible we have been and will continue to be.”
Evans says the college, like most employers, have been hit by a large increase in costs due to inflation.
The board also approved a proclamation declaring October as Manufacturing Month. Evans noted manufacturing as a whole is the top employer in the college district.
“I think its a fair statement that a majority of our students who go to the Crips Technology Center have a leg up on a lot of the individuals just going straight into the work force. I cannot say enough about the apprenticeship partnerships and businesses.”
Evans says their promise is to continue to work together with the business and industries to build on their relationships. He also commended Dean of Workforce Engagement and Industrial Career Service Joy Fitts and the staff at Crisp Technology Center for their hard work.
