School Board scrutinizes $9M budget cut impacting Plum Middle renovation

Concerns over budget overruns and safety issues dominated the Plum Borough School District Board Meeting on April 16, 2025. Board members expressed frustration as they grappled with a staggering $9 million budget overage for two major school projects, which has left the district in a precarious financial position.

One board member voiced their anger over the decision to cut $9 million from the middle school budget, emphasizing the urgent need to address safety concerns related to school facilities. "We need to fix the issue, and it needs to be on the priority list," they stated, highlighting the potential risks to students if the problems are not resolved promptly. The board's inability to reach a consensus on how to proceed with the budget cuts has raised alarms about the future of school safety and infrastructure.

The discussion also touched on the possibility of borrowing an additional $5 million to alleviate some of the financial strain, but board members acknowledged the limitations of their current budget. With an overall project cost of $70 million, the district is facing significant challenges in securing the necessary funds to complete essential renovations.

As the meeting progressed, the board shifted focus to the design development phase of the projects, noting the collaborative efforts with engineers and construction managers. However, the overarching concern remains: how to effectively manage the budget while ensuring the safety and well-being of students in the district.

The board's next steps will be crucial as they navigate these financial hurdles and prioritize the necessary improvements to school facilities. The community will be watching closely as decisions are made that will impact the safety and educational environment for students in Plum Borough.