Categories: School News

Florence School District 1 Approves Budget with Tax Increase

An aerial view of Florence School District showcasing its schools and recreational areas.

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News Summary

Florence School District 1 has approved a nearly $209 million budget that includes a tax increase aimed at supporting teacher salaries and enhancing school safety measures. The budget, determined during a recent board meeting, will impact business owners and residents with more than 5 acres of land. Although taxes will rise slightly, officials claim that the overall tax rate will still be lower than last fiscal year. The budget also intends to address the annual costs for school resource officers, with a focus on maintaining a secure learning environment for students.

Florence, South Carolina – Florence School District 1 Approves Budget with Tax Increase

Florence School District 1 has officially approved a budget of nearly $209 million for the 2025-26 fiscal year during a board meeting held on June 12, 2025. This budget incorporates a modest tax hike aimed primarily at sustaining teacher salaries and enhancing safety measures in schools.

The tax increase will impact both business owners and residents who own more than 5 acres of land. Specifically, those who own primary residences that exceed this threshold will only face taxation on the property beyond the 5 acres. For instance, a property consisting of 10 acres will only incur taxes on the additional 5 acres.

This budgetary decision is in response to the necessity of raising teachers’ salaries to comply with state minimum requirements, which necessitates raising approximately $30 million through local taxes. The added tax burden is estimated to result in an increase of about $7 on the business tax bill for properties valued between $200,000 and $300,000.

Despite this tax increase, officials noted that the overall tax rate remains lower than it was during the 2023-24 fiscal year. The school district had previously managed to reduce taxes after successfully passing an 8 percent bond resolution.

Costs for Safety Measures

Additionally, the budget increase addresses the growing costs associated with school resource officers (SROs), which the district estimates to be around $1.6 million annually. The district has renewed contracts with the Defender Services of Columbia and the Florence County Sheriff’s Office to ensure the continued presence of SROs in schools.

It’s important to note that a state grant program designed to fund SRO positions excludes districts that already use local resources for these staffing needs. This restriction greatly impacts Florence School District 1’s ability to manage costs effectively, leaving the community to absorb most of the financial burden.

The anticipated tax hike is expected to generate approximately $1.5 million; however, it still falls short of fully covering the annual expenses associated with the SRO positions.

Board’s Perspective

Board members, including Vice Chair Trisha Caulder, have highlighted that proactive funding for SROs has directly influenced the district’s financial requirements and its eligibility for state funding. This prioritization of funding for safety personnel reflects the district’s commitment to maintaining a secure learning environment for students.

In summary, Florence School District 1’s new budget addresses crucial areas in teacher pay and safety, despite the tax increases. The adjustments made during the board meeting aim to enhance educational standards and ensure students’ wellbeing while navigating financial challenges posed by state regulations and safety needs.