Bowling Green City Schools faces $2.6M cuts without new tax levy approval

In a critical meeting held by the Bowling Green City School District Board of Education, officials discussed the urgent need for additional funding to maintain the district's operations. The board is facing a significant financial challenge, as it has not passed new operating dollars since November 2010, marking over 14 years without increased funding.

The primary focus of the meeting was the proposed operating levy set for the May 6, 2025 ballot. This levy, a 0.75% traditional income tax for a five-year period, aims to generate necessary revenue to support the district's day-to-day operations. If the levy fails, the district anticipates needing to implement budget cuts totaling approximately $2.6 million starting in the 2025-2026 school year.

Superintendent discussions highlighted two main options for addressing the financial shortfall: passing the levy to increase operating revenue or making substantial cuts to expenditures. The board emphasized that if the levy does not pass, they would be forced to reduce staffing and programs significantly, impacting the quality of education and services provided to students.

The proposed cuts would affect 29 positions, including teachers, administrative staff, and support roles, which could drastically alter the educational landscape within the district. The superintendent noted that these reductions are not desired but necessary if the community does not support the levy.

In addition to the levy discussion, the board reviewed past budget reductions, including a $422,000 cut for the current school year, which involved eliminating several positions through attrition and careful fiscal management. The district has also sought grant opportunities, securing nearly $2 million to help offset costs.

As the board prepares to vote on the proposed budget cuts, the community's response to the upcoming levy will be crucial. The outcome will determine not only the financial health of the Bowling Green City School District but also the future of its educational programs and staff. The board's commitment to transparency in these discussions underscores the importance of community engagement in shaping the district's financial future.