BENTONVILLE — Several politicians who live in or represent parts of the Bentonville School District said they support the millage increase proposed for a second high school.

State Rep. Dan Douglas, R-Bentonville, said he voted against the 6.7-mill tax increase the School Board proposed last year for a high school, but he’s happy with the way the board has revised its vision and cut its request to 2.9 mills. He said he would vote for it this time.

“I feel like the board and administration have done a yeoman’s job in turning back some of the expenses,” Douglas said. “We have to have a better situation for our high school students.”

State Sen. Bart Hester, R-Cave Springs, lives in the Rogers School District, but his Senate district includes much of the Bentonville School District.

Hester, who signed a pledge during his Senate campaign last year not to vote for tax increases proposed in the Legislature, said he remains as anti-tax as anyone in the state.

“But what’s unique about a millage increase is the people get to decide,” Hester said. “The people of Bentonville know what their children need. There’s no disputing they need more space in the Bentonville schools. I feel this (millage increase) is necessary.”

State Rep. Jim Dotson, R-Bentonville, did not return messages seeking comment.

Bob McCaslin, mayor of Bentonville, and Bill Edwards, mayor of Centerton, have been vocal in their support of the millage. The second high school would be built in Centerton.

Frank Anderson, Bella Vista mayor, said he supports the millage as well. Most Bella Vista residents he’s talked to have seemed positive about it, he said.

“I’ve heard very few negative comments,” Anderson said.

State Sen. Jim Hendren, R-Gravette, represents Bella Vista and much of west Benton County. He spent many years on the Gravette School Board, so he understands the challenges districts face when asking for tax increases, he said.

He hasn’t formed an opinion on Bentonville’s millage.

“It’s up to the board to demonstrate there’s a need,” Hendren said. “There’s no doubt in my mind people in Northwest Arkansas support education.”