Tax increase, layoffs still options in Jordan School District

WEST JORDAN — Talks of tax increases and layoffs abound as the Jordan School Board draws closer to making a final decision on its budget for the 2010-11 school year.

"All of the options are still on the table," board president Peggy Jo Kennett told the Deseret News Tuesday night.

The Jordan School District is facing a $30 million deficit due to the recession, state budget cuts and the district split.

The board is looking at myriad budget cuts, including eliminating 250 employee positions. The board decided last month it wouldn't ax teachers, therefore eliminating the possibility of increased class sizes. However, the district is now targeting programs, administration and non-classroom personnel.

A bill passed by the state Legislature is allowing struggling school districts such as Jordan to use building funds for classroom needs. While that has helped Jordan's budget matters, the district is still looking at filling a $17.5 million hole.

The board is planning to present its proposed budget during a public meeting May 11, after which the public will be encouraged to give input.

"People will be welcome to e-mail, call and write letters so we can hear their reaction to the proposed budget," Kennett said. "We're glad to hear what people think of the proposed budget."

The board then aims to finalize the budget and vote on June 8.

Addressing the board Tuesday night, Robin Frodge, president of the district's teacher union, Jordan Education Association, encouraged the board to opt for a small tax increase because it is "the most reasonable solution to our district's budget shortfall."

Increasing taxes by $9.40 per month for a $200,000 home would recoup $14 million, Frodge said.

Last fall, the district implemented a 20 percent tax hike — $136 more on the district portion of the property tax bill for a home valued at $200,000.

Not everyone thinks a tax increase is a great idea, however.

"If the district doesn't have enough funds, they shouldn't just raise taxes. They need to look within their structure and streamline things," said parent Mike Jackson of Riverton. "The district needs to use their money wiser."