April Ballots 2026
Two Questions. Zero Tax Increase.
A Stronger Future for Our Schools.
Our community has asked how they can help support students, staff, and schools, not just today, but for years to come. This April, voters have the opportunity to consider two ballot questions designed to improve district stability and address real operating and facility needs without raising the tax rate.
These measures use existing revenue sources, apply funds exactly as outlined in the ballot language, and reflect thoughtful planning to protect classrooms, programs, and learning environments.
This is about creating a sustainable path forward that keeps our schools strong and ensuring our district remains financially sound for years to come.
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Why These Ballot Measures Matter
HMC-1 is focused on stabilizing finances now while planning sustainable changes in our future. The April ballot includes two questions that work together to support district operations and facilities without increasing taxes for Hickman Mills homeowners.
What Voters Should Know
- Neither question changes the overall tax levy rate
- Both utilize existing revenue sources
- Funds are applied only as outlined in the ballot language
- The goal is sustainability for the years to come
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The Ballot Questions at a Glance
Question 1: General Obligation Bond
- Allows the district issue $20 million general obligation bonds to repurpose existing debt moving it to the debt service fund, pay off existing facility debt, address building maintenance, and safety needs.
- Estimated impact: approximately additional operating revenue $1.4 million per year beginning in the 26-27 SY.
Question 2: Debt Levy Transfer to Operating
- This would shift 30¢ of the existing debt service levy ($1.10) to the operating levy; this does NOT increase the overall tax levy rate.
- Estimated impact: approximately $2 million per year beginning in the 26-27 SY.
How YOU Can Help
Learn the facts. Ask questions early. Share accurate information. An informed community is a strong community.
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No-Tax-Increase General Obligation (G.O.) Bond Explained
A no-tax-increase General Obligation (G.O.) bond allows the school district to invest in building and facility improvements without increasing the current property tax rate.
G.O. bonds are repaid using the district’s existing debt service property tax levy, which voters have already approved. As older G.O. bonds are paid off, the district’s total outstanding debt is reduced. This creates available capacity within the current levy.
The district may then issue new G.O. bonds to fund needed projects while keeping the debt service tax rate the same.
In simple terms:
- The bond is a General Obligation (G.O.) bond
- The property tax rate does not increase
- Existing debt is paid down
- New projects are funded using the same, voter-approved tax rate
This approach allows the district to responsibly maintain and improve school facilities while continuing to use the same property tax rate currently dedicated to school debt repayment.
Ballot Questions and Tax Rate Impact - NO-TAX-INCREASE
There are two separate ballot questions.
- Each question addresses specific financial and facility needs of the district.
- If both questions pass, the district’s overall tax levy rate is expected to remain unchanged.
The intent of the ballet questions is to address district needs while maintaining the existing tax rate paid by property owners.