YDR: Local representative's bill would put some school budget increases to vote; cut some 'unfunded mandates'

Local representative's bill would put some school budget increases to vote; cut some 'unfunded mandates'

Districts would have to put budgets up for a vote if they exceed an inflation index, with no exceptions. Now, Rep. Seth Grove said, some districts find a way around the rules.

By TOM JOYCE, York Daily Record/Sunday News

Updated: 03/12/2011 11:25:27 PM EST

York, PA - Gov. Tom Corbett has tapped State Rep. Seth Grove, R-Dover Township, to introduce a key piece of the governor's education policy -- legislation that would require school districts to put their budgets up for a public vote should they get too high.  

Grove said it's good policy that would give local residents more control over how their tax dollars are being spent.

Read More: http://www.ydr.com/ci_17600974

Corbett, Grove seek legislation to reform school district property tax exceptions

ANDREW SHAW The York Dispatch

Posted: 03/14/2011 10:46:21 AM EDT

Six York County districts have applied for exceptions with the state to go above their property tax increase limit next year.  If Gov. Tom Corbett and state Rep. Seth Grove have their way, in the future those districts would be forced to go to voter referendum to secure higher tax rates.

Corbett and Grove would like to eliminate the practice of districts applying for exceptions for unavoidable costs such as special education and pension costs. Corbett mentioned the idea in his budget address, while Grove is the primary sponsor of a House bill that would prevent the practice.

Read More: http://www.inyork.com/local/ci_17610685