LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Voters in the Silver Creek Schools district have decisively rejected a nearly $63 million referendum aimed at addressing capacity issues in local schools. The special election, held Tuesday, saw a strong opposition from the community, with 3,759 “no” votes to just 238 “yes” votes. Voter turnout was recorded at 32.36%.
The referendum, which would have raised property taxes for local homeowners by as much as 44%, sought to fund new construction, additional classrooms, and renovations across the district. If approved, the proposal would have raised approximately $63 million over the next 25 years. For a homeowner with a property valued at $250,000, the tax increase would have equated to an additional $520 annually.
The referendum sparked intense debate within the community, particularly in Sellersburg, where signs urging residents to “vote no” appeared prominently throughout neighborhoods. While opposition to the tax increase was clear, many residents expressed reluctance to speak out publicly. Some worried about potential backlash, with one individual even fearing they would have to sell their home if the tax hike passed.
Angela Cornett, the Clark County election administrator, confirmed the final tally of votes, which revealed overwhelming opposition. The results have raised questions about how the district will proceed with its plans to address overcrowding in schools.
The Silver Creek Schools district has already been undertaking a significant $100 million project that includes updates to athletic fields and substantial renovations at the high school. However, with the defeat of this latest referendum, it remains to be seen how the district will address its growing capacity concerns moving forward.
As for the residents who opposed the tax increase, many feel that the burden of funding school improvements should not fall on local homeowners, particularly in light of the high cost of living and existing property taxes. The outcome of the referendum reflects deep-seated concerns over tax increases and the financial strain they place on residents.
With over 700 early ballots already cast and a clear majority opposing the tax hike, the district now faces the challenge of finding alternative solutions to its infrastructure needs, one that may require further community dialogue and adjustments to funding plans.
