I am writing to express concern over the city council’s recent decision to allocate municipal tax dollars to the Roanoke Rapids Graded School District.
While I support strong public education, this funding choice raises serious questions of fairness, jurisdiction, and fiscal responsibility.
The city limits of Roanoke Rapids encompass three different school districts, yet RRGSD serves several areas outside the city limits.
In fact, 100 percent of the district lies within Halifax County, and roughly 20 percent of its territory — and the students it serves — are in unincorporated county areas.
Under North Carolina law (G.S. 115C‑408(b) and G.S. 115C‑426), counties — not cities — are the local taxing authorities responsible for funding school facilities and providing supplemental operating funds to all districts within their borders.
Halifax County provides significant supplemental funding to the Halifax County School District. Municipal contributions are voluntary, not mandated.
When the City allocates funds to RRGSD, it is effectively subsidizing education for residents who do not pay city taxes.
According to the budget amendment passed on September 16th, $17,593.50 was allocated to RRGSD of which half will be returned, leaving the city paying $8,796.75.
While some may view this as a small sum, it is significant when our former fire Chief Jason Patrick noted in his budget request for FY25/26 prior to retiring that the fire department urgently needs additional Viper radios to ensure public safety.
Given that Halifax County is legally responsible for funding RRGSD — and that the district serves both city and non-city residents — it is reasonable to ask why this allocation is coming from the city’s budget at all. City funds should be directed toward services and needs that benefit all residents within our municipal boundaries.
I urge the city council to explain the rationale for this decision and to reconsider whether this is the best use of taxpayer money.
Transparency and adherence to proper funding responsibilities are essential to maintaining public trust.
Sincerely,
Ephraim Brodsky
Roanoke Rapids