CPS treasurer warns of tight budget, $5M shortfall risk and potential state tax changes that could cut millions

Treasurer Augustine and the district finance team told the Cincinnati Public Schools board on Oct. 6 that the district faces a tight fiscal year and uncertain state funding, and urged attention to a renewal levy on the November ballot.

The treasurer’s presentation said the current-year budget target is about $634.7 million and next‑year’s planning target is roughly $634.2 million. The district’s cash‑on‑hand position at June 30, 2025, was about 34 days (about $51 million in cash but only about $33 million unencumbered after outstanding purchase orders). Staff said a mismatch between revenue and expenditures could produce a roughly $5 million gap in the current year, though the district has cash reserves that could cover that shortfall if needed.

Why it matters: the forecast shows…