28 December, 2025
tusd-tax-rate-increase-impacts-local-residents-finances

Residents of Tucson are expressing their concerns following a recent tax rate increase implemented by the Tucson Unified School District (TUSD) Board. This adjustment has significant financial implications for homeowners, particularly as it coincides with a rise in the costs associated with impound accounts.

In a letter to the editor published in the Arizona Daily Star, resident William Long voiced his frustration, stating that the increase in his taxes has entirely consumed his expected cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) from Social Security for 2026. Long’s experience reflects a broader sentiment among residents who are feeling the pinch of rising taxation in tandem with the increasing cost of living.

The decision by the TUSD Board to raise the tax rate aims to address funding shortfalls within the school system. However, for many residents, the financial burden is becoming increasingly difficult to manage. Long’s letter highlights the direct impact of these financial decisions on everyday citizens, especially those relying on fixed incomes.

As Tucson continues to grapple with economic challenges, the community is urged to engage in discussions regarding local funding priorities. Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions, either through letters to the editor or guest opinion pieces, to foster a dialogue about the future of education funding and its implications for taxpayers.

For those interested in staying informed about local issues, subscribing to the Arizona Daily Star offers access to opinion pieces, editorials, and community stories that keep residents connected to the developments in Tucson.