Dear residents of Lexington Schools,
I’m reaching out to ask for your support of the two ballot issues before the voters of Lexington Schools on Nov. 3.
These issues are critically needed to maintain Lexington’s service to our students, residents and community. We have already accomplished over $2 million in savings. However, the combination of reduced state funding and inflation continues to outpace our efforts to control costs.
Two issues are on the ballot.
The first is a renewal of the property tax that expires at the end of 2026. Passage will not increase property taxes. It will continue to collect the same amount that was approved in 2011. The term of the renewal is for five years. No matter the value of your home, this issue will not increase your property taxes.
The second is an earned income tax of 0.75% with a term of 10 years. This will only be collected on wages earned. All retirement income, pensions, social security, etc. are not taxable. An earned income tax will not impact the retirement income of our retired residents on fixed incomes. This earned income tax would represent the first new operating levy for our district since 2011.
I have one additional request for our residents — let’s remember the pride we all have in our schools and community!
I believe in our schools. I’m proud of our schools, our staff, and our students. Lexington schools are the reason many people choose to live here. We provide educational leadership and continue to serve the needs of every resident.
Certainly, we serve our students and their families. The schools serve our employees as they provide for the needs of every student. And our continued excellence helps maintain property values for us all.
If you have additional questions about the schools and the ballot issues, please reach out to me.
Join me in proudly supporting our schools by voting yes – twice – on November 3rd. Together we can continue the traditions of leadership that Lexington Schools exemplify. Together we can have a school district we can all be proud of.
Together, we are Lexington!
In your service,
Keith Stoner
Lexington Board of Education