Treasurer Scott Gooding told the Big Walnut Local Schools Board of Education on Oct. 20 that proposed changes at the state level could sharply reduce district revenue and that the district is monitoring multiple bills being considered by the Ohio House Ways and Means Committee.

Gooding and Superintendent Ryan McLane described several proposals under consideration in Columbus and presented estimated local impacts. Gooding said recent fiscal analyses show the district could lose roughly $21,975,000 over three years under the substitute version of House Bill 186, with estimated reductions of $5,422,802 in the first impacted year and $8,276,596 in another year. He and staff said the bills under review also include measures that would change levy calculations and give county budget commissions discretionary authority to adjust tax rates.

“The phase‑in of the final fair school funding plan is changing the inputs we receive, and the legislation being proposed could reduce school revenues without providing real taxpayer relief,” Gooding said during his presentation, which included updated financial reports showing year‑to‑date revenue above estimates and current cash balances.

Gooding summarized the district’s September financials: total revenues and other financing sources of approximately $29.11 million (a modest positive variance), an ending general‑fund cash balance reported at $36.99 million and an unreserved fund balance of about $27.94 million after $9.05 million in encumbrances. He noted expenditure timing for insurance, textbooks and other startup costs that produced above‑budget lines in purchased services for the month but said the district’s financial position remains strong.

Following the legislative briefing, the superintendent presented a proposed resolution authorizing a transfer of up to $3,026,730.65 from the general fund to the debt retirement fund to lower the property‑tax levy rate for 2026 collections. Board members debated the proposal’s benefits and risks, including whether a transfer of general‑fund dollars would leave the district exposed if the Ohio Legislature enacted additional revenue reductions.

Board members asked legal and procedural questions about whether the county budget commission could amend rates already accepted for a tax year and whether adjustments could be made in time to affect tax collection year 2026. Legal and administrative staff told the board the commission meets monthly and could consider an amendment, but that the timing is tight; the board would likely need to act soon for the commission to consider a change.

After discussion, a board member made a motion to table the transfer resolution until a future meeting to allow fuller board consideration and outreach to constituents. The motion to table passed by roll call: Mr. Crowell — yes; Mr. Fuji — yes; Mrs. Nicks — yes. The resolution was tabled and will return to a future agenda for additional review and possible action.

Ending note: District officials said they will continue monitoring legislation and consulting with county officials and state representatives about potential fiscal impacts, and will bring any recommended actions back to the board with additional legal and fiscal detail.