Over the past 25 years, the state has dramatically shifted education funding to the local level. In 2002, the state paid 62% of core education funding with local sources covering 38%. This school year, the state is paying 40% and the local contribution is 60%.

The KY Dept of Education is out with new funding numbers for the 2026-2027 school year. 75% of districts now expect to receive less from the state to support the core funding formula (known as SEEK). In JCPS, that means a cut of $24 million—and more once adjusted for inflation.

"In Kentucky, repeal didn't save money or add competition, but it did lower wages, it caused safety and productivity to deteriorate, and it did send work to out-of-state companies and workers."

Tax revenues are supposed to be one of the draws of data centers, but we’re already seeing much of that evaded.

NEW: A local tax break for Meta's massive Mason County data center project will eliminate approximately $50 million a year in taxes the company would otherwise pay. This is even after considering Payments In Lieu of Taxes (PILOTs) the company will make.

When talking about property taxes, it's important to remember that they're essential to funding schools, public safety, local governments and other vital local services.