JACKSON SETS TAX RATE, PONDERS SOCCER WOES

JACKSON, Mo. -- Jackson School Board approved a property tax rate of $3.31 per $100 assessed valuation for fiscal year 2001.

After a public hearing Tuesday the board approved the rate, which is projected to bring in tax revenues of $8,750,991.27.

The operating levy remains the same while debt service will increase by 10 percent.

In other business, the board heard a request to consider lights and other improvements to the school soccer field.

Former school board member Jack Knowlan outlined the need for lights, restrooms and a concession area as well as improved parking, bleachers and underground irrigation system.

"It always comes down to money," Knowlan said. "And money is very hard to come by in this district, so I came in here with very low expectations."

Knowlan researched the problem of lights and came up with an estimate of about $40,000 for material if the district and volunteers provided labor and tools.

Knowlan said he's confident the soccer program can come up with the money for the lights with concession money, charging admission to games, soliciting donations and raising funds.