School District proposes $100 million budget with no tax increase for 2025-2026

The recent School Board Committee Meeting held on May 1, 2025, highlighted key financial decisions that will shape the district's budget for the upcoming year. The proposed budget exceeds $100 million, reflecting a modest 0.14% increase in both revenues and expenditures compared to the current year. Notably, the budget maintains the current real estate tax rate, which is a relief for many residents concerned about rising taxes.

The primary source of revenue continues to be real estate taxes, contributing over $56 million to the budget. While the district could have raised taxes by 4.7% under state law, officials opted not to pursue this increase, which could have generated an additional $2.8 million. This decision underscores the district's commitment to fiscal responsibility amidst ongoing economic uncertainties.

State funding remains stable, with slight increases in special education allocations but little change in basic education subsidies. Federal funding, primarily from Title programs, contributes approximately $7.76 million, although future federal support remains uncertain.

Expenditures are largely directed towards instructional costs, which account for nearly 63% of the budget. This includes both special and non-special education services. Support services, including administrative and health personnel, make up about 26% of the budget. The district also faces significant costs related to transportation and tuition for special education services.

A notable aspect of the budget discussion was the identification of one-time expenditures that have allowed the district to avoid tax increases this year. These include savings from unfilled positions and the sale of outdated technology, such as iPads, which is expected to generate around $300,000. Additionally, the district has reduced its capital fund project transfer, leveraging remaining bond proceeds from previous construction projects.

Overall, the meeting emphasized the district's strategic approach to budgeting, balancing the need for educational resources with the financial realities faced by the community. As the district moves forward, it will continue to monitor funding sources and expenditures closely to ensure sustainable financial health while meeting the educational needs of its students.