Voters overwhelming OK property tax renewal for schools

MADISON COUNTY – Local superintendents expressed their gratitude to Madison County voters, who showed their continued support of public schools by voting to renew existing property taxes for the three public school districts.

Six different ballot measures related to continuation and renewal of some countywide and district taxes. All measures passed with more than 70 percent of the vote.

“I hope everyone woke up a little more proud of this community and its commitment to education,” Elizabeth Fleming, Director of The Schools Foundation, said on Dec. 13 about the voting results.

Superintendent Robby Parker with Madison City Schools Superintendent said, “The citizens of Madison have always supported us, and we had no doubt they would support us this time. We are excited about the present and the future. This was a vote for our kids now and the next generation.”

The local district tax renewal passed by a 76 percent margin in Madison with similar results for the two countywide renewals.

“We are so proud of our community,” Madison County Schools Superintendent Matt Massey said. “Our system’s mission is to create and support high-quality public schools that maximize student achievement, expand student opportunities and prepare graduates for success in a globally competitive world.”

“We are well on our way to accomplishing that mission, thanks to the partnership we share with our community,” Massey said. “I want to personally thank the voters of Madison County for helping us continue this mission.”

Massey said this tax renewal was necessary to continue expanding programs like robotics, biotechnology and career academies. “Our children thank you for investing in their future. You made a difference with your vote.”

Huntsville City Schools Superintendent Matt Akin said the voting returns show the Huntsville community’s commitment to schools. “This will allow us to continue programs like Pre-K, which has such a big impact, as well as other programs such as fine arts, robotics, Greenpower and advanced manufacturing.”

“These type programs are not only important to meeting the needs of the community but are giving our kids opportunities that they would not have otherwise,” Akin said. “We could not do these things without the community’s support. Thank you.”

The renewals mean $6.5 million for Madison City Schools, $14.3 million for Madison County Schools and $37.6 million for Huntsville City Schools annually. Because the state does not provide this local funding, the money supports hundreds of local teaching units and progressive curricula.

For more information about The Schools Foundation, call 256-535-2080 or email elizabeth@theschoolsfoundation.org.