At the most recent Keota School Board meeting, they evaluated the estimated budget for the 2017-2018 fiscal year. The school’s tax levy amount is estimated to be one of the lowest in the area. Superintendent Dennis Phelps says the tax levy for the coming year will be approximately $12.08 per $1,000. By comparison, Mid-Prairie’s tax levy is estimated to be $13.90, Washington’s will be approximately $15.80, and Highland’s will be around $14.19.
Phelps says there are a few factors that contribute to the Keota tax levy being on the low side, “We don’t have a lot of debts, and really our capital gains fund will be done next year. So we’d like to keep it right where it’s at, if we can. That way you don’t go up and down a lot, it frustrates people when you do that.” Keota had an increase in certified enrollment this year to 349 students, which also contributed to a lower tax levy. The community will have an opportunity to weigh in on the Keota budget at a public hearing on April 12th. To hear more about the Keota School Board meeting, listen to the In Touch with Southeast Iowa interview with Phelps at KCIIRadio.com.