The Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) was an amendment to the Colorado Constitution passed by voters in 1992 that limits the amount of revenue governments in the state can retain and spend. An unintended consequence of TABOR is curtailed government services, sometimes quite essential and desired by citizens, such as schools and roads. As a result of TABOR, Colorado’s per pupil funding rates, which are some of the lowest in the nation, have been seriously impacted.
Ballot Issue 4A would use an increase in property taxes, which are coincidentally, some of the lowest in the nation, to fund a $150 million bond for Durango School District 9-R. This money would be used to construct a new elementary school at Three Springs, make necessary major repairs and improvements to existing buildings, invest in workforce housing, and improve capital assets.
Most citizens are unaware of the fact that state taxes that fund our schools may not be used for buildings or capital assets. The funding 9-R receives from the state is used primarily for salaries (87%), and the rest is used for operating expenses. For years, the district has had to delay necessary maintenance and upgrades because of these financial restrictions. Our community is fortunate to have one of the top school districts in the state, led by highly qualified educators, and we have continually supported education. As a community we must help our District serve our children. I urge voters to vote “yes” on Ballot Issue 4A.
Gene Orr
Kline
