GALLATIN, Tenn. -
Sumner County students are still on an extended summer vacation after the school board and county commission failed to agree on a budget.
The debate has highlighted the property tax rate in Sumner County.
Some parents have said they are willing to pay an increased tax rate if it means more money for schools.
"We should all as a community have a discussion about our tax rate and how to make it work for businesses and families and it probably needs to go up," parent Andy Spears said.
Parent Melissa Brown added, "I think that actually gives us lots of room to work with our educational funding."
The county commission, however, has been hesitant to increase the tax rate.
"I don't want to increase anybody's taxes I don't want to do it in this economy," Commissioner Chris Hughes said.
Sumner County, when compared to surrounding counties, has one of the lowest property tax rates at $2.02 per $100 of assessed value.
Homeowners in Davidson County pay $3.56 per $100 of assessed value. Wilson County homeowners pay $2.50 and Williamson County homeowners pay $2.31 per $100 of assessed value.
Last Thursday night the school board came to a compromise budget they believe the commission will agree to.
The compromised budget is set to be voted on during a meeting at 7 p.m.
If approved, students could return to the classroom later this week.
Previous Stories:
- August 12, 2012: Sumner County businesses rally to support school system
- August 10, 2012: Emergency meeting called to discuss Sumner County school budget
- August 9, 2012: Parents flood school board meeting to discuss Sumner County budget
- August 8, 2012: Sumner County sits on unused money, Schools remain closed
- August 8, 2012: School funding stalemate drags on in Sumner County
- August 7, 2012: Sumner County's delayed school year could affect sports teams
- August 6, 2012: Still no start date for schools in Sumner County
- August 5, 2012: Sumner County parents to rally in response to closed schools
- August 2, 2012: Sumner County school year delayed until budget reached
- July 16, 2012: Sumner County Commission wants school budget cut
