Judson district reviews $2526 budget amid legislative changes and projected deficits

The Judson Independent School District (JISD) held a special meeting on June 5, 2025, to discuss the proposed fiscal year 2025-2026 budget. The meeting focused on reviewing updated financial information and legislative changes that could impact the district's funding.

Dr. Fields opened the meeting by outlining the goal of getting the budget approved by June 26. Mr. Guerra presented key updates from the recent legislative session, highlighting that House Bill 2 had been signed into law, which included an increase in the basic allotment for schools. This change is expected to provide an estimated additional $1 million in funding for the district. However, the proposed increase in the homestead exemption from $100,000 to $140,000 could lead to a significant reduction in local tax collections, estimated at $12 million, which would necessitate a larger state share of approximately $24 million to offset the loss.

The budget forecast for the upcoming fiscal year indicates a revenue projection of $254.6 million against expenditures of $278.1 million, resulting in a projected deficit of $40.8 million. However, with the new legislative changes, the deficit could potentially decrease to $31.1 million. The board discussed the implications of these figures, including the need for careful planning to address the budget shortfall.

Several board members raised questions regarding specific budget line items that showed significant increases, such as instructional leadership and extracurricular activities. The administration explained that these increases were based on anticipated needs and adjustments for inflation, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining quality programs for students.

The meeting also touched on the upcoming tax rate discussions, with the possibility of a proposed increase to $1.11 per $100 valuation. This increase, if approved, could generate an additional $26 million for the district, which would be crucial in addressing the budget deficit.

In conclusion, the JISD board is preparing for a challenging budget year ahead, with significant legislative changes impacting funding. The administration is committed to providing clear information to the community regarding the budget and potential tax implications, ensuring transparency as they navigate these financial challenges. The next steps will involve further discussions and workshops to finalize the budget and address the community's concerns.