Overspending, Embezzlement Force Property Tax Increase In Hulbert

HULBERT, Okla. (AP) -- A budget deficit in the Hulbert School district caused by overspending and embezzlement will force a property tax increase for residents.<br/><br/>A judgment against the school district

Friday, July 28th 2006, 6:18 am

By: News On 6

HULBERT, Okla. (AP) -- A budget deficit in the Hulbert School district caused by overspending and embezzlement will force a property tax increase for residents.

A judgment against the school district was filed on Monday in Cherokee County District Court It orders the district to pay more than $137,000 to 64 teachers and support staff.

Larry Lewis, attorney for the district, says that because of the shortfall, taxpayers will have to pay an additional $30,000 to $40,000 in property taxes over the next three years.

Lewis says that failure to make the school's payroll for June and July was due to overspending in the past year based on the belief the district was getting more money than it actually was, he said.