Rockwood school tax hike trailing slightly in initial returns, Mehlville measure passing
News November 05, 2025

Rockwood school tax hike trailing slightly in initial returns, Mehlville measure passing

Returns from absentee votes in the Rockwood district showed 1,184 in favor and 1,145 against.

**Rockwood School Tax Hike Faces Tight Race, Mehlville Measure Cruises to Victory**

St. Louis County, MO – Early returns paint a mixed picture for school funding measures in the Rockwood and Mehlville school districts. While a proposed tax hike in Mehlville appears to be heading for a comfortable victory, a similar initiative in Rockwood is locked in a nail-biting race, with the outcome still far from certain.

The Rockwood School District is seeking voter approval for a tax increase intended to bolster school resources and programs. Initial results, comprised solely of absentee ballots, reveal a razor-thin margin. As of the first count, 1,184 votes were cast in favor of the measure, while 1,145 votes were against it. This incredibly close split suggests that the final result will hinge on the in-person voting on election day, making every vote crucial.

The small difference of just 39 votes highlights the intense debate surrounding the tax increase. Proponents argue that the additional funding is essential to maintain the quality of education within the district, allowing for crucial investments in updated technology, smaller class sizes, and competitive teacher salaries. They believe these improvements are vital for preparing students for future success.

Opponents, however, express concerns about the potential financial burden on taxpayers, particularly during a time of economic uncertainty. They question the district's spending priorities and argue that there may be alternative solutions to address the funding challenges without raising taxes.

In contrast to the tight race in Rockwood, the Mehlville School District's funding measure appears to be on track for a decisive victory. Although specific vote counts were not immediately available, early indications suggest that the proposal is passing with a significant margin. The Mehlville measure aims to provide resources for facility upgrades and enhanced student support services. The positive response from voters signals a strong endorsement of the district's plan and a willingness to invest in the future of its students.

With in-person voting underway, both districts now await the final tally. The Rockwood result, in particular, remains highly uncertain, with the fate of the tax hike hanging in the balance. School officials and community members alike are closely monitoring the results as they come in, understanding the profound impact these decisions will have on the future of education in their communities. The final outcome will determine the resources available to both districts in the coming years and shape the educational experiences of countless students.
Category: Politics