PAW PAW - Prior to the Dec. 14 regularly scheduled meeting of the Paw Paw School Board, Jennifer Warrenfeltz, Principal/Superintendent-Intern, presented an explanation on how the tax levy works. Taxing bodies usually request more than they expect to receive because final assessed valuation figures are not available when the tax levy must be approved.

Three years ago, there was a transition as new wind turbines were being installed. The assessed valuation of the turbines declined, and this caused the tax rate for the school district to go up to $6.73. The following year the tax rate went down to $6.63 as the district benefited from most of the new wind turbines being installed. Last year the rate went down to $6.51 as the final new wind turbines became operational.

Based upon current assessed valuation figures from the County Assessor, it is anticipated that next year’s tax rate will be around $6.40. Since the levy request this year is not more than 5 percent, the school district was not required to publish a notice or schedule a hearing. The board decided to publish a notice and schedule a hearing anyway in an effort to be as transparent as possible.

The property taxes paid by members of the community are determined by two variables, the assessed valuation of the property and the tax rate. As previously mentioned, the school district administration anticipates that the tax rate should be lower for taxes to be paid in 2022. Changes in the assessed valuation of property will vary from property to property.

In other discussions, appreciation was extended to Lisa Tavitas, Title I teacher, for the extra assistance she has given in various capacities throughout the school. Likewise, appreciation was expressed to Kim Siemers, Instructional Coach, for taking on extra duties.

It was announced that the state is no longer providing masks for our students. They have given small ones for the younger grades, but those are too small for the middle grades. Extra masks are, necessarily, being purchased.

An intruder drill was conducted Dec. 13 with Deputy Kyle Kellen of the Lee County Sheriff’s Department. He complimented students and staff on their proficiency and mentioned that it was much improved from his last observation two years ago.

There is a Long-Range Planning Committee for the Paw Paw School District compiled of board members. They would appreciate input and participation from anyone interested in being part of this planning committee. It is to the district’s and tax-payer’s benefit to have a variety of diverse citizens participating, each with valuable viewpoints. Interested parties are encouraged to call Warrenfeltz for more information at (815) 627-2671.

The next Community Open Forum will be held Tuesday, Jan. 11. All Paw Paw community members are invited to attend and are encouraged to share their thoughts or ask questions of board members. For more information, please call Warrenfeltz.