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Watchung Hills board previews 2026–27 budget, weighing use of health-benefit waiver and potential referendum
Summary
Administrators presented a preliminary 2026–27 budget overview highlighting declining enrollment, rising health and special-education costs, a 2% state levy cap (about $725,000) and eligibility for a state health-benefit waiver that could increase the levy if fully used; board members discussed referendum timing and tax-impact communication.
Administrators at the Watchung Hills Regional High School District board meeting on Feb. 3 gave an initial presentation on the district’s 2026–27 budget outlook, emphasizing continuing cost pressures and a modest projected enrollment decline.
The administration said enrollment has fallen over recent years (the presenter cited roughly 1,741 students in 2023–24 and projected about 1,663 for next year) and listed recurring drivers of increased spending: health-benefit costs, special-education tuition, transportation and building repairs. For planning, the presentation used a flat state-aid assumption until official numbers are released.
Why it matters: The district faces constrained options under New Jersey’s levy cap rules. The…
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