The Benton Community School Corporation board voted (Monday night) to put a referendum question on the May ballot. Superintendent Gregg Hoover said “this is the best option to pursue” to try to fight off financial problems.

The board’s decision comes after months of community input and public hearings. The corporation has been dealing with deficit spending near $1.5 million. Last month, a Financial Advisory Committee was talking about possible cuts to the music and sports programs.

Hoover said this referendum is their best option to gain important funding. Declining enrollment and insufficient funding from the state has added to the financial problems.

The board passed a referendum that would increase property taxes 31 cents for every $100 of assessed value.

94.1 WGFA