Fayette County's occupational tax could go up.

After a vote last night by the Fayette County Board of Education.

The board approved a tax increase which will cost the average taxpayer about 13 additional dollars a month, while generating between 13.5 million and $16 million for the next school year and about 30 million the year after that.

It still needs fiscal court approval.

Last night, the board heard from supporters who say it's necessary.

And critics who don't like the increase or how it was passed.

It's important to understand that we all have to invest in our kids, because the more we invest in our kids, the higher educated our community is, the better we all do.

And so I know this is a hard decision for you.

But as a former educator, a coach, a mentor, a parent, and an advocate for a community that often marginalized, I know this decision is important.

But I implore you to go ahead, increase the tax, and make sure all of our kids continue to be successful.

Continue to have access and opportunity.

You didn't know if you could could did you have to submit a budget by the 30th?

If you didn't, what happened?

Are you allowed to submit a budget that has a deficit by the 30th?

Just I mean, I mean, like from the community's perspective, that was a joke.

How much confusion happened and nobody could tell any of us in the room what was required legally.

They passed a $30 million tax.

Knowing or thinking that they didn't have to let you know with at least one week's notice.

That is why you did this.

And it's despicable what you did.

Just now.

The tax increase would help the district close a $16 million deficit.

Last night's vote was 3 to 2.