Voters opposing schools in tax votes

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Indiana voters seem willing to pay more in property taxes to help school districts cover operating costs.

The results of last week's referendums, however, continue the trend against supporting plans for bigger, better schools during tough economic times.

Voters last Tuesday voted down three proposed school building projects. The one to win approval -- in southern Indiana's Southwest Dubois district -- was for renovations, not new construction. Eight of nine school construction projects were rejected in previous referendums this year.

Schools that sought to raise property taxes for operating expenses fared better, with two of three such referendums winning approval.

Lawmakers and others say taxpayers simply aren't willing to pay higher taxes now.