Dec 9

Dec 9 Local homeowners will pay less than expected for school levy

Property taxes for local homeowners will be less than expected.

The Rochester School Board voted on Tuesday to set the district’s 2016 local property tax levy at $49.5 million, about $3 million less than expected. The lower tax levy reflects an expanded tax base in Rochester, according to the district.

The vote means the owner of a $200,000 home will pay about $136 per year, compared to the $183 amount that was initially advertised.

Last month, local voters narrowly voted in favor of a school referendum that will allow the district to maintain current spending levels through at least the 2019-20 academic year. The referendum passed with 50.58 percent support.

District officials had promised deep cuts if the referendum was not approved.