Support tax increases for schools as the cost of living rises? Indiana voters face a tough choice.

Indiana voters are faced with a challenging decision as they weigh the possibility of supporting tax increases for schools amidst rising costs of living. Lindsay Bohney, a single mother and fourth-generation Lowellian, is grappling with a significant portion of her property tax bill - around $4,000 dedicated to the school district.

This additional tax burden, on top of her $18,800 already paid to the district, puts a strain on her finances as a co-owner of farmland in the town. Bohney, who works multiple jobs to make ends meet, would have to drive her daughter to school if the proposed tax increase fails, resulting in a loss of an hour's pay. On the other hand, if the tax increase is approved, Bohney estimates it will cost her nearly $4,000 more on her farmland alone.

However, the elimination of school buses would force her to make the same daily commute, adding to her financial burden. Andrea Blandford, a bus driver and also a co-owner of farmland, initially voted against the proposed tax increase in 2023 but is now inclined to support it as her job is at risk. With her livelihood depending on the outcome of the referendum, Blandford fears that if the measure fails, the state might intervene to address the issues, hoping to find a solution if the referendum does not pass.