Delaware Valley board adopts $98.9 million 2025–26 budget with 1.97% tax increase

The Delaware Valley School District Board of Education voted to adopt the 2025–26 budget during its May public meeting, approving a balanced $98,916,182 spending plan and a 1.97% tax increase at a millage rate recorded in the motion as 124.36 mills. The motion passed on a roll call vote of eight in favor, one opposed.

The vote followed a multi-hour discussion during which business office staff presented alternative levy scenarios that ranged from the draft 2.74% proposal presented last week down to a 1.97% proposal. The lower option the board approved relies in part on a $100,000 assumed state cyber reimbursement, adjusted revenue estimates (delinquent taxes and interest earnings) and personnel reductions via attrition rather than involuntary layoffs.

Why it matters: the adopted budget sets school district revenues, the millage rate and program funding for the coming school year and will be reflected in fall tax bills. Board members emphasized limiting direct program cuts and using attrition where possible; members and public commenters also pressed the board to present the specific program-level reductions that would be required to reach a 0% tax increase.

Most important facts and decisions - The board approved a $98,916,182 balanced budget for fiscal year 2025–26 with a 1.97% tax increase and a millage rate described in the motion as 124.36 mills; the final roll call recorded…