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Somerset board reviews multi-year budget shortfalls and outlines possible operational referendum for Nov. 3, 2026
Summary
Board administrators presented multi-year budget projections showing a growing operating deficit and proposed an accelerated timeline for an operational referendum (community survey April–June; possible board resolution by August; election Nov. 3, 2026). Administrators also described options if a referendum fails.
Administrators for the Somerset School District told the board on March 16 that under current assumptions the district faces a growing operational shortfall and began a public discussion about whether to place an operational referendum before voters in November 2026.
Rod, the district budget presenter, said the district projects "a little over $200,000" shortfall next year, rising to "almost $600,000" the following year and approaching roughly $1,000,000 within three years if current trends hold. He said the projection assumes salary growth of about 2.8 percent, higher benefit-cost increases in the first year, declining enrollment and no change to the current state funding model. "It does not include any funds that are set aside for buildings and grounds," he said, adding that major capital…
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