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Dear Editor:
As you prepare to vote, I ask that you carefully consider the importance of our schools, their financial stewardship, and the role they play in the future of our community.
Noblesville Schools has a long tradition of academic excellence. From strong performance on state assessments to nationally recognized STEM and music programs, our district has consistently made student achievement a priority.
Financial responsibility is equally important. Our district undergoes regular state audits, and our financial leadership and school board provide oversight of spending, policies, and long-term planning. Noblesville Schools has earned an AA credit rating and the highest S&P financial rating among Indiana school districts – a reflection of years of careful financial management.
As taxpayers ourselves, all five school board members recognize the significance of the operating referendum appearing on the Nov. 3 ballot.
Our board has committed to a 2027 referendum tax rate of $0.385 per $100 of net assessed value, compared with the current $0.37 rate that expires at the end of this year. While the ballot authorizes a maximum rate of $0.57, that is not the rate planned for 2027.
Changes under Indiana’s SEA 1 property tax legislation also affect how the referendum will impact individual taxpayers. According to district estimates, a home valued at $350,000 would see an average increase of approximately $1.88 per month over the eight-year referendum period, although individual circumstances will vary.
The public is invited to attend our Oct. 27 school board meeting, when we are scheduled to vote on the 2027 budget.
For me, this commitment to Noblesville is deeply personal.
I was born here, and I’ve operated businesses in this community since 1981. Throughout those years, I’ve heard countless families explain that the quality of local schools is their number one consideration when deciding where to live. Our three adult daughters are NHS grads. We have three grandchildren in Noblesville Schools.
Our city and our schools share an essential relationship. The strength of our educational system affects our community, our local economy, our property values, and our future.
I also want to acknowledge Mayor Chris Jensen, former State Senator Luke Kenley, and our two state representatives for their publicly expressed support of the Miller YES – Strong Schools, Strong Community initiative. Their involvement highlights the important connection between education and community development.
A special thank-you goes to our Superintendent, Dr. Dan Hile.
Dr. Hile has made an extraordinary commitment to public communication, participating in more than 40 community meetings and discussions about the referendum. These conversations have given residents opportunities to ask questions, understand the district’s financial challenges, and hear directly from school leadership.
There has been considerable conflicting information circulating about the referendum, particularly regarding its tax implications and how the funding is used. I encourage everyone to examine the district’s published financial information, ask questions, and seek accurate answers before making their decision. Still have a question? Ask Dr. Hile directly before you vote.
This election also includes two school board seats. Misti Ray and Joe Forgey bring established records of service and experience with our schools. Our current board has worked collaboratively on financial oversight, district policies, and long-term educational priorities.
Above all, I believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, and our dedicated teachers deserve the resources and support necessary to help them achieve that success.
Strong schools and a strong community are closely connected. The decisions we make today will help shape Noblesville for generations to come.
Bret Richardson
Member, Noblesville School Board
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