Vermont Business Magazine Vermont’s annual Education Tax Letter was released today by the Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Taxes. This year’s "December 1 Letter" projects an average tax bill increase of 5.9% next year under current budgetary projections. This is on top of the current year’s 13.9% increase. The average Vermonters education property tax will have increased by one-third over the past three years if today's projection holds.
Governor Phil Scott today issued the following statement:
“One of the greatest issues facing Vermonters is affordability. With an already high tax burden, the last thing Vermonters need is yet another property tax increase. I know many will claim victory, and celebrate this increase being limited to single digits. But the fact is, with this projected increase, Vermonters will have seen a 33% increase in education property taxes in the last three years. This is the result of unsustainable costs, an aging demographic, and smaller workforce.
“I am hopeful legislators will take a moment to reflect on how difficult any increase will be and work with my administration to reduce the tax burden on Vermonters who simply cannot afford more and make changes necessary to achieve long term sustainability. This increase could have been substantially more – and still could be – so I want to thank school administrators and school boards who have made difficult decisions because I know it’s not easy.”
Republican legislative leaders issued this statement:
"For many years, Vermont Pk-12 spending increases have far surpassed Vermont’s tax base, inflation, and wage and economic growth. Vermont’s total spending on Pk-12 education next year is projected to increase 6% to $2.44B. This does not include Vermont’s Agency of Education, which is paid for by the General Fund. District education spending is projected to increase by 5.4% next year, the three-year growth has been 26.5%.
"Vermonters clearly voiced their opposition to increasing education property tax rates in the most recent election and House and Senate Republicans are committed to working with Gov. Scott’s Administration, and our legislative colleagues to reform the Education Fund so that it is transparent, understandable to Vermonters and establishes a closer connection between district spending decisions and local tax rates.
"Some have proposed that education tax increases can be averted by simply dedicating additional revenue to the Education Fund or cost-shifting. Others believe if we craft a correct system of penalties and thresholds, the problem can be solved. We strongly disagree with such thinking and will oppose plans that do not include fundamental systemic reform to the Education Fund.
"House and Senate Republicans are resolved to do our part to ensure Vermont children receive an excellent education at a price Vermont taxpayers can afford. We look forward to working with Gov. Scott’s Administration and our legislative colleagues to provide tax relief for Vermonters."
Sen-Elect Scott Beck, Senate Republican Leader. Rep. Pattie McCoy, House Republican Leader.
To support vital journalism, access our archives and get unique features like our award-winning profiles, Book of Lists & Business-to-Business Directory, subscribe HERE!
