Maricopa Community Colleges considering property tax increase
The governing board of the Maricopa Community Colleges is considering raising primary property taxes, which support about 60 percent of the district's operational budget.
Board members will vote on the increase June 10 at a public hearing. If approved, the tax would become $77.09 a year on a $100,000 home, which would total about $6.8 million for the community college district. Without the increase, the tax will amount to $75.58 a year on a $100,000 home.
MCC officials say the additional revenue is needed to pay for increased expenses to support the 235,000 students at its 10 colleges and two skill centers. Needs include student scholarships, a public safety initiative, and a new student retention and persistence program.
Money also is needed for operating support for new buildings developed under the 2004 voter-approved capital program payday loan online payday loans. Last year, as construction costs skyrocketed, the district found itself running short on funding for the buildings approved by that initiative. It began looking for ways to be more cost-effective in building, including forging public/private partnerships.
In each of the past six years, the district's primary tax rate has declined. Any increase would become effective July 1.
The meeting is set for 6 p.m. June 10 at the district office, 2411 W. 14th St., Tempe.
For more: 480-731-8889.