Wheel Tax Rolls to November Ballot

Last night, the Sumner County Commission courageously passed the buck and placed a Wheel Tax before voters on the November ballot.  The wheel tax increase of $25 per car would be dedicated to schools and could only be redirected if voters approved the redirection in another referendum.  So, if it passes, it will generate a dedicated $2.5 - $3 million each year for local schools. 

However, by failing to address the immediate budget challenge at last night's meeting, the Commission placed the School Board in a quandary heading into tonight's meeting.  With uncertainty about funds, the Board faces potential cuts that could include layoffs.  But, if the Wheel Tax passes and goes into effect in December, the funds would be available to prevent most, if not all, of the layoffs.

Does the Board move ahead with layoffs now...or will it wait until November to decide?

And, what about Adult Education?  The program is no longer in the school system's budget.  What does that mean?  School opened last week.  Presumably, Adult Education is working right now.  But, with no source of funding for the 2012-13 academic year, it is uncertain whether the program will continue operating beyond September, when the County Commission approves the final School Board budget.  Absent a $400,000 allocation from the County, Adult Education and its 9 employees will be gone.  The program serves some 1200 citizens each year. 

Tonight's Board meeting will also address calendar issues created by the delay of the school start date.