Expanding Local Tax Support for Community Colleges: A Case Study Using Two Policy Theories

• In Event: Building Bridges for Community College Success: Evaluating the Role of Policy, Funding, and Accreditation

Abstract

Local funding makes up a significant portion of the operating revenues for many community colleges. Often, these funds are derived from local property taxes. Many of these taxes are established and their rates are adjusted through public referenda. Little scholarly attention has been paid to examining how community colleges sustain local tax support and the role of community college leaders in efforts to increase operating revenues through local tax or mill levy elections. This single case study uses the Multiple Streams and Advocacy Coalition Frameworks to examine the agenda-setting process and successful adoption of an operating levy increase for a large, multi-campus, urban community college located in the Midwest.

Authors

• Jonathan M. Turk, Iowa State University

• Everrett A. Smith, University of Cincinnati