October 21st, 2025
Follow along with a YouTube video from Superintendent Dr. Josh Matthews: LINK
The Shelby County Public Schools Board of Education did not raise the tax rate. They voted to keep the tax rate the same. As of today, there are two tax rates currently on the table:
The 4% Rate vs. Keeping the Same Rate
4% Rate: Gross tax revenue increase listed in the newspaper: $5,045,796
4% Rate: Expected actual collection increase: $3,888,830
(Assumes realistic collection rate & exonerations)
The difference between taking the 4% rate & keeping the same rate: $763,000 (Not millions as written & circulating. It is the only recallable portion.)
The difference between taking the 4% rate & keeping the same rate: $14 per $100,000 of assessed real estate.
The board voted to keep the same rate.
What We Lose in State Funding (SEEK):
SEEK funding decrease due to property assessment increases: ($-2,204,495)
There is an inverse relationship: As property assessments go up, our state funding goes down regardless of the tax rate.
What We Actually Gain:
If the petition passes and the 4% rate is imposed: ($3,888,830 - $2,204,495) Net increase in funding: $1,684,335
Where the $1,684,335 Goes:
Step salary increases: $700,000
Bus replacement (aging fleet): $450,000
(not currently included in our working budget)
Technology replacement (1:1 devices): $300,000
(Chromebooks, teacher computers, smartboards, carts)
(not currently included in our working budget)
Inflation is around 2.9% (Internet, water, electricity, insurance)
About the Tax Rate Decision:
This $763,000 is not “extra” as it is already budgeted for this year. Every district budget is set on the current rate.
If the 4% rate is adopted versus keeping the same rate, $763,000 must be cut from this year’s budget. Also, we will not be able to budget $763,000 for next year. That is a budget decrease of $-1,526,000.
How would we use the $763,000:
SROs (School Resource Officers) at each school: $200,000 minimum
Weapons detection at middle & high schools: $400,000 minimum
Audio enhancement emergency alert system: $250,000 per unit
(Wearable button for staff to call for help or contact 911 instantly)
Teacher & Staff raises to keep up with inflation
Keeping programs such as fee waivers, free admission to athletic events, free AP testing, and the provision of books and supplies for dual credit courses.
Median Home Price:
According to a quick Google search, the median home price in Shelby County is $332,000.
If the petition is successful and the 4% rate is adopted, it would save the average homeowner approximately $49 per year, or $4.08 per month.