Horsham School District presents balanced budget with recommended 3.46% tax increase

The Hatboro-Horsham School District is set to approve its final budget for the 2025-2026 school year, which includes a proposed 3.46% increase in the real estate tax rate. This decision, presented during the school board meeting on June 16, 2025, aims to address a projected deficit of nearly $3 million while maintaining current academic programs and staffing levels.

The budget, totaling approximately $132.9 million in projected revenues against $135.9 million in expenditures, reflects the district's commitment to financial responsibility. The increase in the tax rate would raise the millage from 33.8 to 34.97, translating to an estimated monthly increase of $7.61 for homes in the lower quartile, $10.66 for median-valued homes, and $16.78 for those in the upper quartile.

In addition to the tax increase, the district is continuing its senior citizen tax rebate program, which offers additional financial relief to qualifying residents. New this year is an active volunteer service tax rebate program, designed to support community members who volunteer in emergency services. This initiative will match rebates provided by Montgomery County, potentially offering up to $1,500 in tax relief for eligible volunteers.

The budget process, which began in October, involved multiple public meetings and discussions to ensure transparency and community engagement. The administration emphasized that the proposed budget adheres to the state's Act 1 index, which limits tax increases, and that the district has consistently remained below this threshold.

As the board prepares to vote on the budget, the administration remains optimistic about the financial health of the district, highlighting a strong credit rating and solid fund balance. The approval of this budget is seen as a crucial step in sustaining educational quality and community support in the Hatboro-Horsham School District.