Superintendent Ehren Jarrett proudly announces the Rockford School Board has voted to maintain property tax levels at nearly the same as last year. This marks an impressive 11th consecutive year of flat property taxes, with no additional burden for Rockford area property owners.
“We know families are already feeling a pinch in the pocketbook and this goes a long way to helping them out,” said Dr. Jarrett. “I want to thank the board for backing this decision.”
The board was presented with multiple options including increases of up to 5 percent. But the administration pushed for keeping rates where they are. Ultimately, the board approved $142,477,431 in property taxes, factoring in roughly $355,000 in new properties joining the district last year.
The decision was made easier due to soaring property values in Rockford. “With the latest assessment, we’re seeing a record 12% surge in property values,” added Dr. Jarrett. “Which helps the schools, property owners, and the whole community.”
The district estimates a current tax rate of 5.146 which is a drop in the tax rate of over 2.78 from the 2015 (payable in 2016) taxes. For someone who owns a home valued at $150,000, that means you’ll pay roughly $270 less in taxes this year. Of course, what you pay all depends on your specific home values.
There’s no doubt this is good news for Rockford families and area homeowners. “All of us at RPS 205 are committed to keeping the tax burden as easy as possible on our community,” offered Dr. Jarrett. Taxpayers have saved more than $290,000,000 over the last 11 years from the Board not capturing the allowable consumer price index increase.
The Rockford School District is all about putting students first. Every day, thousands of educators work day-in and day-out to provide a first-class public education for all Rockford families.