Minimal population growth not a problem

July 12, 2008 07:06 pm

— Elkhart County population growth continues, although the new census estimates suggest there have been very modest increases.
If the numbers are any indication, Goshen-area school districts won’t be facing triple-digit enrollment growth this fall.
The latest statistics were also prepared before the most recent economic slowdown, which may further depress the population totals.
But many communities have grown rapidly in the past two decades, and slower growth will put less pressure on public services.
For instance, Goshen added 376 residents from 2006 to 2007, but grew by 2,510 since 2000 for an 8.54 percent increase. However, between 1990 and 2000, the Maple City experienced more than 23 percent growth, going from 23,797 to 29,838 residents.
Goshen-area school officials have planned for growth by pursuing building projects that have added classrooms and teachers. But in at least the Wa-Nee school district, enrollment declines have led to teacher layoffs.
Educators must walk a tightrope when projecting growth while still maintaining fiscal restraint. It is the same with elected officials who like to add personnel, especially during election years, but realize that positions added to the payroll often remain there permanently.
Elkhart County officials are still figuring out the impact of state tax legislation passed this year. However, they know there will be significant reductions in property tax revenue for most units of government, with most decreases beginning in 2009.
The minimal population growth will collectively give Goshen-area officials a chance to catch their breath. Slight growth is not necessarily a problem.