For Immediate Release

The Harrison Hills City School District Board of Education has approved a bold financial strategy to pay off the district’s building bond in full by 2027, 28 years ahead of schedule. The plan includes a payment of $18.5 million this Fiscal Year, followed by a planned payment of the remaining $7.4 million next Fiscal Year.

This decision, made during the board’s July meeting, reflects a long-term commitment to fiscal responsibility and a continued focus on easing the tax burden for Harrison County residents.

The Harrison Hills Board of Education includes D.J. Watson, Edward Banks, Deborah Kenny, Tracy Mattern and Kristen Willis. Together, the five members have worked diligently toward this goal, building on years of careful financial stewardship and strategic planning.

Board President DJ Watson, who was also a volunteer Y.E.S. Committee member in promoting the original bond levy, said the decision represents a promise kept to the community.

“When we asked voters to support this levy, we made a commitment to be responsible stewards of those dollars,” Watson said. “This payoff plan honors that commitment while positioning the district for long-term stability. It’s a testament to the vision and teamwork of our board and the trust of our community.”

The district’s general operating fund is largely supported by public utility tax revenue, strengthened by continued growth in the gas and oil industry across Harrison County. This strong financial foundation has allowed the board to accelerate debt reduction without compromising future visionary programming within the school district. 

The board’s action builds on a strong track record of reducing tax burdens for Harrison County residents. In 2015 (Tax Year 2016 pay), Harrison County residents were paying a 3-mill Permanent Improvement Levy and a 4.48-mill Bond Levy. Today, in 2025, residents are paying just a 1.7-mill Bond Levy.

While the bond levy is being retired early, the district’s maintenance levy will remain in place to continue supporting ongoing operations and to ensure the schools are well maintained for future generations.

The board’s decision to retire the bond early demonstrates its continued commitment to Harrison County taxpayers while supporting high-quality educational opportunities for students.