Mount Lebanon School Board reviews 2025-26 budget with proposed tax increase

The Mount Lebanon Board of School Directors convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss the final budget for the 2025-2026 school year, highlighting key financial adjustments and future projections. The meeting, held at Mount Lebanon High School and accessible via Zoom, featured presentations from district administrators, including Dr. Friese and Mrs. Connelly.

The proposed budget remains largely unchanged from previous discussions, with total revenues projected at $125,119,257. Notably, an increase in gaming revenue of approximately $299,444 will lead to a decrease in real estate revenue due to an increase in the homestead exemption. The budget includes a proposed tax increase aligned with the Act 1 index, which is expected to raise approximately $4.16 million for the district.

The millage rate is set to increase from 29.3005 to 30.95, translating to an additional cost of about $24.79 per month for an average home valued at $200,000, and $68.73 per month for a $500,000 home. The final expenditures for the budget are also projected at $125,119,057, reflecting a decrease of $1,528,081 since the last budget forum.

Key factors influencing expenditures include a 3.5% increase in salaries, a 5.7% rise in healthcare costs, and various adjustments in staffing and operational expenses. The budget aims to maintain fiscal sustainability without relying on fund balance or furloughs, emphasizing proactive planning and transparency.

Board members expressed gratitude to the administrative team for their efforts in delivering a balanced budget amid challenging circumstances. The board will vote on the final budget during a meeting scheduled for May 21, 2025, adhering to state regulations regarding budget adoption timelines.