Voters across Indiana supported local schools in last week’s elections at a time when many are without jobs and uncertainties remain about economic losses fueled by the coronavirus pandemic.
On primary election day, 14 school districts sought voter approval to exceed statewide property tax caps for construction projects or other expenses.
Of 18 referendums on ballots, 16 passed, according to preliminary results. The high approval rate follows three previous and less favorable elections in Indiana when voters defeated at least one-third of such measures.
Purdue University economist Larry DeBoer, who has studied Indiana tax policy for about 30 years said he was suprised the referendums were so successful this time around. He added that voters were evidently a lot more optimistic than many expected.
Operational referendums passed in 11 school districts including one here at home at Barr Reeve. Five construction measures passed in other parts of the state.
