The Columbia County Board of Education unanimously approved to lower the millage rate to 17.35 mills at its meeting on Tuesday, July 26.
This marks the second consecutive year the board members approved to lower the millage after rate it was lowered last year from 18.3 to 18.1. The millage rate is the lowest now it has been since 2012.
The board approved the fiscal year 2023 budget at its meeting on May 24. The approved budget included a 5.0% growth estimate in local property tax revenue. According to a news release from Director of Communications Abbigail Remkus, due to an increase in tax digest, the board decided to approve a reduction in the millage rate, which will provide a savings for property owners.
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Columbia County’s School District budget provides resources to accommodate a growing student population.
According to Remkus, the student population in Columbia County is forecasted to add over 600 new students next year with enrollment projected to reach more than 29,000 students in the 2022-2023 school year.
“I think the reduction is appropriate, and it gives some tax relief, but also it enables us to do anything we need to do, not everything we want, but need to do,” said Chairman of the Board David Dekle.
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The board also gave a reminder for open house coming up for students and parents. High schools in Columbia County will have their open houses on Thursday, July 28. Middle schools will have their open houses on Monday, Aug. 1, followed by elementary the following day. Open house will be from 4:30-6:30 p.m.
The first day of school for Columbia County is Thursday, Aug. 4.
Chris Rickerson is a staff reporter covering Columbia County government and general assignment topics for The Augusta Press. Reach him at chris@theaugustapress.com.
