Property Taxes Rising for Some in Spartanburg County

Spartanburg News | postandcourier.com

Property taxes are set to increase for some taxpayers in northwestern Spartanburg County as part of the latest budget for Spartanburg County School District 1. The millage rate within the district has recently been raised by 7 mills, affecting secondary residences, businesses, and vehicle owners in the area. Although primary residences are exempt from the school district operational taxes, the increase will impact other property owners and vehicle owners to varying degrees.

Impact on Taxpayers

According to Jada Tessnier, the district’s spokesperson, taxpayers can expect an estimated $63 increase for a 6 percent nonowner-occupied property valued at $150,000. Additionally, owners of vehicles with a value of $25,000 can anticipate an additional estimated $10.50 in taxes. These changes are part of the district’s efforts to address several needs, including improving teacher and nonteacher compensation and implementing weapon-detection services at high schools.

Implementation and Timeline

The new budget, which begins in July, will be reflected in taxpayers’ bills starting in the fall, around the end of September or early October. The decision to raise operational taxes was made by the school board during a meeting on June 10. While the budget for the upcoming fiscal year amounts to $63,405,690 in both revenue and expenditures, the millage rate has increased from 169.8 mills in 2023 to 176.8 mills for the current year.

Board Approval and Concerns

The budget approval, which included the millage rate increase, was not without opposition, as board member Debbie Baker expressed concerns about the completeness of information regarding salary surveys from surrounding districts. Despite the dissent, the majority of board members voted in favor of the budget to address critical needs within the school district.

Previous Millage Rates and Future Changes

From 2018 to 2023, the millage rate for Spartanburg County School District 1 stood at 197.2 mills, significantly higher than the current rate. With the recent increase, four out of the seven new mills are allocated for teacher equalization, with each mill estimated to be worth about $72,000. The adjustment in millage rates also aims to ensure that staff members who have not received pay increases in recent years are appropriately compensated.

About Spartanburg County School District 1

Spartanburg County School District 1 serves the communities of Landrum, Campobello, and Inman. The district is committed to providing quality education and addressing the evolving needs of students and educators in the region.

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