Boyertown Area School Directors approve 3% tax increase, tap $1.8 million from fund balance; select enrollment consultant and approve series of contracts

The Boyertown Area School District Board of School Directors on May 13 approved the district’s 2025–26 final general fund budget, authorizing a 3% tax increase and the use of $1,800,000 from the district’s fund balance to balance the plan.

The decision drew public comment questioning the district’s long-term fiscal plan. “Tonight, you'll be voting on the budget with a 3% tax increase and taking $1,800,000 from your fund balance,” said public commenter Johnny Savage, who also urged the board to explain long-term strategies for special education costs, capital planning and alternative revenue options.

Administrators told the board the budget as presented includes planned capital projects (air conditioning, roof work and possibly a turf field) and that salaries, benefits and professional services accounted for roughly 80% of April expenditures. The district’s April revenue highlights reported to the board included approximately $1,429,114.57 in earned income tax and $2,806,152 in basic education subsidy; delinquent tax collections for the month were about $148,546.16.

Why it matters: approving the budget with a draw on fund balance reduces reserves available for future contingencies and was the one of the clearest policy choices made by the board at the meeting. A board member recorded one “no” vote on the budget during roll call; the motion nonetheless carried.

Enrollment study and vendor selection

The board voted to contract with the Pennsylvania Economy League to conduct a demographic and enrollment projection analysis for the district at an adjusted price of $30,000. The administration recommended two vendors; the board approved the Pennsylvania Economy League's engagement and rejected a separate vendor proposal from Steps to Achieve (a…