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Greendale board reviews preliminary 2024–25 budget after larger-than-expected state aid projection
Summary
District finance staff told the board a July update to state equalization aid increased projected revenue, giving the board options to keep the levy flat, prepay debt, or fund about $428,300 in community capital projects such as playgrounds and field repairs.
Greendale School District finance staff presented a preliminary 2024–25 budget update and outlined options for using a larger-than-expected increase in state equalization aid.
Jonathan Mitchell (staff member) told the board that the July projection for state equalization aid rose by about $1,343,488 versus earlier estimates, which reduces the share of the district’s revenue limit that would need to come from the local tax levy. Mitchell said that under that projection the tax levy could remain flat while still addressing several capital needs.
The administration presented three broad options: keep the tax levy flat, allocate approximately $792,000 to prepay debt while freezing last year’s levy, or use Fund 80 (community capital) to finance roughly $428,300 in noninstructional projects. Mitchell identified potential Fund 80 projects including soccer-field renovations, a full replacement or phased upgrade of the JC Park playground (vendor ballparks discussed near $175,000), and pool maintenance and structural repairs. On pool work, Mitchell said a scoped project to remove a deteriorated concrete ceiling in the pool chemical room could be about $150,000 (a rough estimate), with final costs depending on quotes.
Board members asked about maintenance plans if the district invests in fields and playgrounds. Mitchell described protocols (locked equipment containers and volunteer/coach responsibilities) and said the district has been working with youth-sport leaders on upkeep. Trustees also discussed coordinating with village projects (a rough $275,000 concept to add 20–25 parking spots at 84th and Grange) and whether consolidation of playing fields could reduce maintenance overhead.
Student board members weighed in, with one saying debt prepayment could be prudent if the district has a cushion. Mitchell said the administration will return with updated 2023–24 accounting and final numbers at the Aug. 19 meeting, after auditors finish entries.
The board took no final budget vote; members requested updated figures and follow-up on design and maintenance details.
