Beech Tree News Network

MORGANTOWN — Butler County Schools has released the following statement to provide an update on the proposed facility tax increase and recent developments during the 2026 legislative session.

"Through targeted advocacy and collaboration with state leaders, the district has worked to ensure Butler County has access to the same opportunities available to other districts across the Commonwealth by maximizing local investment through state equalization funding.

 Across Kentucky, 139 of 171 school districts have passed at least one nickel tax which allows them access to additional state equalization funding. Butler County is currently seeking voter approval to become the 140th district to have at least one equalized nickel.

 During the initial passage of the state budget by the House Revenue and Appropriations Committee, 17 school districts were identified to receive facility tax equalization funding.

 Butler County was not included at that time, as the district was still completing the required steps following Board approval and preparing for voter consideration.

 Equalization has been a key factor in making the facility tax increase a priority. Under the state’s formula, for every $1 raised locally, the state provides approximately $1.95 in additional funding which nearly doubles the impact of local investment.

 After it was confirmed by Representative Rebecca Raymer that Butler County was not among the 17 districts, Superintendent Robert Tuck worked to develop a direct appropriations request and secure sponsorship from Senator Steven Meredith and

Senator Craig Richardson as the legislation moved to the Senate. These efforts emphasized that the district had already taken formal Board action and was actively finalizing the process.

“This represents an important opportunity for Butler County,” said Superintendent Tuck. “With this likely being the final round of equalization funding, it was important that our district’s situation was clearly communicated. 

 If approved, this positions Butler County to access state equalization funding, allowing the district to responsibly utilize those resources to support safe, reliable schools.”

 Butler County Schools extends sincere appreciation to Representative Rebecca Raymer, Senator Steven Meredith, and Senator Craig Richardson for their support and advocacy. This proposal reflects the state’s recognition of the need for equitable consideration, given

Butler County’s position among the lowest-ranked districts in local tax effort, and aligns the district with the 17 other districts included in equalization.

 If the tax passes in November, it will be equalized by the state.

 Under Kentucky’s equalization formula, this effort is projected to increase Butler County Schools’ bonding capacity by approximately $19 million. The estimated $428,759 in local revenue would be matched by approximately $783,281 in state funding, significantly expanding the impact of local investment.

 Recent legislative action also indicates this will be the final round of equalization funding under the current structure that underscores the importance of Butler County’s inclusion. This advocacy resulted in language being added to the state budget with support from House and Senate leadership and the General Assembly.

These funds would be used to address critical safety and facility needs across the district. Priorities include replacing aging buses and making essential repairs and system upgrades at every school, including fire-safety systems, intercom systems,

HVAC replacements, roofing and plumbing repairs, and improvements to student access and safety. Many of these systems are at or beyond their expected lifespan, making these investments necessary to maintain safe, reliable schools for students and staff.

 “This is about making sure Butler County students have access to the same opportunities as students across Kentucky,” said Superintendent Tuck. “Through strong advocacy and responsible planning, we’ve positioned our district to maximize every

local dollar. If approved, this would allow the district to address critical safety and facility needs while maintaining one of the lowest tax rates in the Commonwealth. It would support student opportunities and reflect the district’s ongoing focus on fiscal responsibility and long-term planning.”

 For more information, visit https://www.butlerschools.net/taxrate-25