The Western Community College Area Board of Governors voted to amend its 2023-24 fiscal year budget at the October board meeting.
The board voted to reduce the capital fund levy by approximately 1.65 percent from what was previously approved. The tax levy for the 2023-2024 fiscal year will equal 1.85 cents per $100 of property valuations throughout the 12 ½ county service area. This results in an approximate $200,000 decrease in the capital improvement budget that was previously reviewed.
WNCC was one of five local taxing authorities that participated in a joint property tax hearing held on September 20. Board chair Lynne Klemke stated that some board members and WNCC administrators attended the hearing and the public’s comments did not go unnoticed.
“The hearing afforded board members that were present the opportunity to listen and gain additional insight into what our constituents are thinking,” said Klemke. “Students are our number one focus, but we want to continue to be responsive to taxpayers. Our goal is to give our students the best educational opportunities while also being mindful of our taxpayer dollars.”
President Greg Dart echoed Klemke, and appreciated community members who chose to speak and voice their concerns.
“We are fortunate to have come to a resolution after the public hearing that reduces the college’s tax burden but not cutting operating budgets that would have a negative impact on our students,” Dart said. I have also had great conversations with Governor Pillen, and with the passing of Legislative Bill 243, we’re heartened to hear that he feels the state is in a good position to help fund community colleges in the following years while also helping taxpayers.”
Under LB 243, taxpayers are able to apply for a 100 percent income tax credit for property tax paid to community colleges to help offset costs.
With the amendment of the budget, the WCCA Board will hold an additional budget hearing starting at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 15 with the regularly scheduled board meeting to follow. All meetings are open to the public.