Iowa City School Board members approved for publication by media sources a potential property tax raise of 7.4 percent for the 2010-11 school year at their Tuesday meeting.

But officials may lower this rate pending state legislative decisions due in the next two weeks regarding state aid to the School District, said Paul Bobek, the executive director of administrative services for the district.

Changes in the way district officials use local-option sales tax revenue could also lower the rate.

Bobek presented four possible funding allocation scenarios to the board, with property-tax rate alterations ranging from no change to the proposed 7.4 percent increase.

This rate is down from the original proposed raise of almost 15 percent, which district officials discussed earlier this month.

Board members discussed approving the higher number for publication, but they agreed to offer the lower option in the end.

“I think with all people tightening their belts, we need to do the same,” said board member Tuyet Dorau.

Following a public hearing on April 13, board members will approve a final change.

— by Holly Hines