Board approves Feb. forecast and 2026 appropriations; treasurer cautions reappraisal, revenue shifts

The Nordonia Hills City School Board voted unanimously on Feb. 17 to approve the district's February financial forecast and fiscal 2026 appropriations after a presentation from the treasurer.

The treasurer presented a forecast showing total projected revenue of about $61,000,000 and projected expenditures of roughly $59.7 million for the fiscal year. He said the district is considered "high capacity," with most revenue coming from local property taxes, and highlighted legislative changes in the Ohio General Assembly that are already built into the forecast.

The treasurer said changes enacted or proposed at the state level could affect district revenue calculations. He referenced House Bill 96 and House Bill 355 (as discussed in the meeting) and said the district has baked a 2026 county reappraisal into the forecast; he projected the district's effective millage could decline from about 33.6 mills to roughly 29.95 mills next year while collecting similar total revenue under the statutory formulas.

The treasurer also noted this fiscal year is the final MGM settlement payment (year 6 of 6) and flagged an anticipated recommendation in June to transfer about $1,200,000 from the general fund to other funds (permanent improvement, buyout and related needs).

Board members asked questions about healthcare costs, consortium purchasing and staffing; the treasurer said the district has used consortia to moderate health-insurance premium increases.

The board approved the forecast and appropriations by roll call; the motion passed with all present members voting "Yes."