Referendums
Carmel Clay Schools is in the discussion phase of a potential November 2026 referendum to restore funding lost due to SEA 1 and inadequate state support, which have declined as the voucher program has grown. Our community has supported referendums since 2010, when state funding formulas changed, ensuring that Carmel public schools continue to have high-quality staff, programs, and facilities.
These referendums serve as a vital mechanism for local voters to approve property tax increases for specific educational initiatives, as well-funded schools ensure vibrant communities. Because these referendums last for eight years, we take responsibility for ensuring that the Class of 2034 has the same resources and opportunities as our current graduates.
This local support remains essential to secure resources beyond state provisions, and we encourage everyone to review our publicly presented information.
The following two presentations are from the latest School Board Special Session. We encourage all residents and taxpayers to review the presentations and watch the full meeting to learn more.
Current Referendums
Operating Referendum
Property Tax Levy Total (2023): $24M
Including the share of excise tax and other miscellaneous revenue, the Operating Referendum produces $25.3M in total.
Tax Rate: $00.19
Term: 8 Years (2023-2031)
The Operating Referendum covers additional funds needed for student instruction and learning, human resources, utilities, custodial and maintenance. Each year, the district depends on the Operating Referendum as it supplements the Education Fund by more than 17%.
Safety Referendum
Property Tax Levy Total: $5.6M
Tax Rate: $00.05
Term: 7 Years (2020-2027)
Due to new state legislation on the timing of referendums, Carmel Clay Schools will seek voter approval in November 2026 to continue funding programs that keep our schools safe.
From 2019 to 2022 the rate was maintained at only 3.5 cents per $100. Starting in 2023 the full 5-cent rate was implemented following the full staffing and implementation of safety measures.
Safety Referendum Information
1st in the State
In 2019, the Indiana legislature passed SB127, which allows schools to seek local referendums to fund school safety initiatives. Carmel Clay Schools was the first district in the state, and still only one of two communities, to successfully pass a safety referendum.
The School Safety Referendum allows Carmel Clay Schools to:
- Fund a unit of 21 School Resource Officers, including at least one in every building (up from seven shared officers prior to the referendum).
- Partner with Ascension St. Vincent for onsite mental health services. In 2023, an average of 500 students per month were served through the program.
- Provide additional funding for Student Services staffing and professional development.
Expenses
