Tax renewal to benefit Las Cruces Public Schools being decided by voters

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico — Voters in Dona Ana County were deciding whether to renew an existing tax to support students at Las Cruces Public Schools on Tuesday.

Officials with LCPS said if voters approve the mill levy, known as HB33, it will generate approximately $10 million each year to fund health and safety projects, such as perimeter fencing and updating ADA compliant projects in school buildings, as well as new school furniture, band instruments and uniforms for middle and high schools, and other items.

School district officials said the money plays a critical role in funding projects and upgrading technology needed for higher learning.

The approval of the Las Cruces Public School Buildings Act will not increase the current school tax rate, according to LCPS officials. If approved, the mill levy will assess local property taxes in the amount of $3.00 for every $1,000 of net taxable value of a person’s property for the next six years. The taxable value is one-third of the assessed value of a person’s property. Officials said that while not approving the tax would lead to a decrease in property tax, the tax increase equates to several visits to Starbucks a month.

A complete listing of voting centers can be found by calling (575) 647-7428 or clicking here for our voters guide.

For additional information regarding the use of the bond money, contact Las Cruces Public Schools at (575) 527-6014.