Fairfield school district thanks public for attending tax levy hearing

FAIRFIELD — The Fairfield Community School District thanks community members for attending the proposed FY26 property tax levy hearing on Monday, March 24.

The district plans to implement a $12.77 tax levy rate per $1,000 for the upcoming fiscal year, based on a 2% increase in state supplemental aid and a mandatory 10% assumed rise in property valuations. While the levy rate is increasing, it remains 4.2% lower than the rate paid by Fairfield property owners in 2020.

The tax levy rates for the past 10 years are as follows:

● FY 2016: 13.78

● FY 2017: 13.74

● FY 2018: 13.33

● FY 2019: 13.32

● FY 2020: 13.33

● FY 2021: 11.81

● FY 2022: 11:82

● FY 2023: 11.53

● FY 2024: 10.59

● FY 2025: 12.11

● FY 2026 (Proposed): 12.77

In March 2024, voters approved a $0.67 levy increase for PPEL, and the newly proposed levy reflects a $0.66 increase.

“We sincerely thank the public for participating in the proposed levy hearing,” said Superintendent Zach Wigle. “We understand concerns about property tax increases and want to reassure the community that Fairfield is committed to responsible financial stewardship and maintaining high-quality education. We believe this plan will support our long-term goals. I appreciate those who took time to meet with me after the meeting to ask their questions. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions.”

A proposed FY26 budget hearing (different from the proposed tax levy hearing) will take place on Monday, April 21, at 6:30 p.m. at 403 S. Street, Fairfield IA, 52556.