On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, voters residing within the Oak Grove R-VI School District will see a proposal on the ballot that directly impacts how the district allocates its existing financial resources. While the ballot language may appear complex, this post provides a clear explanation of what’s being proposed and how it may affect district operations.
What’s on the Ballot
The proposal asks voters to approve a $0.70 levy transfer, which would allow the district to reallocate funds from the Debt Service Fund (Fund 3) to the Operating Fund (Fund 1). This transfer would not result in a change to the total tax rate.
Official Ballot Language:
Shall the Oak Grove R-VI School District of Jackson County, Missouri be authorized to increase the operating tax levy ceiling to $3.6061 per $100 of assessed valuation in tax year 2025 for general operating expenses of the District, including without limitation increasing compensation to attract and retain quality teachers and staff, to enhance district technology and STEM (science technology, engineering, and mathematics) programs and enhance school safety. If this question is approved, the operating tax levy of the District is estimated to increase by $0.70 per $100 of assessed valuation, and the District expects to make a corresponding reduction to its debt service tax levy of $0.70 per $100 of assessed valuation. Approval of this question would result in no increase to the estimated overall tax levy.
What This Means
If approved, this measure would provide the district with increased flexibility to use existing revenue for operational needs, without raising the total tax rate for district residents.
The proposed change would shift $0.70 per $100 of assessed valuation:
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From Fund 3 (Debt Service) – used exclusively for repaying past bond projects
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To Fund 1 (Operating) – used to support staff salaries, instructional programs, student services, and daily operations
This transfer enables the district to address current financial needs, including:
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Retaining and recruiting quality staff
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Enhancing technology and STEM education
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Improving school safety measures
All current bond obligations would continue to be paid in full under this proposal.
Fund Overview
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Fund 3 – Debt Service: Restricted to repaying voter-approved bond debt
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Fund 1 – Operating Fund: Supports day-to-day school operations, including compensation, classroom programs, and essential services
Why This Matters
The Oak Grove R-VI School District now receives less than 40 percent of its funding from state sources—a significant decline from previous years. Local funding has become more important than ever to ensure competitive compensation for staff, sustain programs, and meet rising operational demands. The proposed levy transfer allows the district to respond to these needs without increasing the overall tax burden on the community.
Election Day Details
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Polling places will be open for all eligible voters residing within the Oak Grove R-VI School District.
For additional details, frequently asked questions, and updates, please visit the 2025 Levy Transfer Information Page:
https://www.oakgrove.k12.mo.us/district_information/2025_no_tax_rate_increase_levy_transfer