SCHOOL FUNDING DEFICIT Kanawha Schools Question Levy Cap Amid Budget Gap
Reported by: Associated Press
Web Producer: Jeff Morris
Reported: Feb. 12, 2013 5:00 PM EST
Updated: Feb. 12, 2013 5:24 PM EST
Eyewitness News Photo
Charleston
, Kanawha County
, West Virginia
The only county in the state to cap its excess levy is wondering whether that was the right decision as it faces a $4.5 million school funding deficit.
Kanawha County chose last year to cap its excess levy, the property tax that helps fund schools. The cap prevents the county Board of Education from collecting more than $44 million each year to use for textbooks, salaries and other needs.
The Charleston Gazette reported that members are questioning that decision as they consider budget cuts to deal with the deficit.
County Superintendent Ron Duerring says schools may be forced to pay for their own transportation and extra-curricular activities or cut back on summer classes or other programs.
Board President Pete Thaw stands behind the cap, saying taxpayers needed the break.
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