HANNIBAL, Mo. (KHQA) — When the Hannibal School Board voted on Tuesday, August 20, to increase the tax rate for 2024, it was not without pleas from both the public and various council members for and against the tax.

The packed House waited anxiously for the outcome of the vote. Board members like Scott Hawes were of the opinion that a tax increase was not necessary.

“We are making these cuts, we have already made all these cuts, but there are more to come. Maybe we wouldn’t have to raise taxes as much, maybe we could raise them less,” Hawes said.

On the other hand, Superintendent Susan Johnson voted for the increase.

“We can’t take back taxpayer dollars just because things are more expensive. And while they don’t want tax increases, they’re clear that they’re willing to pay those costs to make sure students continue to receive a quality education,” Johnson said.

Several speakers from the audience also called for an increase in the tax rate.

“Demanding further compromises by lowering tax rates would not only further harm students’ education, it could even derail it entirely,” said teachers’ union president Melissa Menze.

Community members were convinced that the tax increase would help the district in the long run.

“Focus on the future. Year, two, five, ten. Not just today or tomorrow,” said Roger McGregor.

The school district can focus on the future once the tax increase is approved, which is currently expected to happen by September 1, 2024.

Click here for more information about the meeting.