Center Grove board holds public hearing on 2026 budget, projects balanced budget amid statewide tax changes

The Center Grove Community School Corporation opened a public hearing on its proposed 2026 budget, bus‑replacement plan and capital projects plan on the evening the board met, with Chief Financial presentations noting the budget is currently balanced but faces significant revenue pressure from recent state legislation.

At the hearing Dr. Taylor summarized key impacts from Senate Bill 1 and the state biennial budget (House Bill 1001), saying the packages are intended to lower residential tax bills but will shift revenue pressure to taxing units, including school districts. He told the board the district expects roughly 1.8% revenue growth for 2026 (1.6% in 2027) when enrollment growth is included and about 1.3% in both years if growth is excluded.

The administration said new statewide elements will reduce some categorical grants the district historically received, notably academic performance and certain special grants, and will add a post‑tax‑cap credit (the lower of 10% of a taxpayer's bill or $300) that will significantly reduce collections to the debt service fund. Dr. Taylor said that credit could reduce…