Bend‑LaPine budget committee reviews proposed 2025‑26 spending plan amid state funding uncertainty

Cara Marsh Rhodes, chair of the Bend‑LaPine Budget Committee, opened the April 8 meeting and the committee confirmed leadership before turning to the district’s proposed 2025‑26 budget.

Superintendent Dr. Steve Cook told the committee the proposed budget is balanced and meets the district’s policy requirements. “Finally, I am also pleased to confirm that this proposed budget is balanced and adheres to the requirements outlined in Bend‑LaPine Schools Executive Limitation 4.3, Financial Planning and Administration,” Dr. Cook said.

CFO Dan Emerson and Assistant Director of Finance Nick Sheen presented core assumptions behind the proposed plan, emphasizing reliance on the State School Fund (SSF) and several state grants. Emerson said current revenue assumptions include a statewide SSF estimate of $11.6 billion, which would translate to about $229 million for Bend‑LaPine in the first year of the biennium. He noted the Ways and Means Committee has approved $11.4 billion so far, creating an approximately $3 million gap for the district if the lower number holds.

Emerson told the committee the budget team has made targeted reductions in materials and services and shifted some technology purchases from one‑time purchases to leasing to smooth cash flow. Those reductions — including a partial…