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Rome draft budget proposes 2.89% tax levy; board approves bus proposition for May ballot
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Summary
The district presented a draft $165 million budget with a recommended 2.89% tax levy and the board approved placing a proposition on the May 19 ballot to buy two 66-passenger diesel buses (not to exceed $420,000); buses are estimated to be roughly 90% aided.
Dr. Gonzales presented a rough draft of the Rome City School District's recommended budget for 2026-27, describing preliminary revenue and expense assumptions and key calendar dates for adoption. "Our budget for this year for the 2026 year is approximately $165,000,000," Gonzales said, and he listed projected foundation aid of about $4,800,000 and an estimated $416,000 in other revenue increases.
Gonzales said the district is reducing the use of appropriated fund balance year over year (from roughly $12 million two years ago to just over $8 million currently) and outlined expected increases in benefits (about $800,000) and contractual costs such as utilities. He recommended staying near the tax levy cap and presented a proposed levy increase of 2.89 percent.
The board considered two ballot propositions Gonzales described: one for two 66-passenger diesel buses and one for the district budget (levy). The bus proposition authorizes purchase of two 66-passenger diesel buses not to exceed $420,000; Gonzales said the vehicles are about 90% aided. The board voted to place the bus proposition on the May 19, 2026 ballot. The motion was moved by Nadia, seconded by Jen, and carried by voice vote.
Gonzales also outlined next steps and public engagement: the board is scheduled to approve the final budget and tax levy on April 1; budget forums are set for April 27April 29 at three locations; and the budget hearing will be held May 11 prior to the scheduled board meeting. The superintendent and administration will provide updated numbers and a final presentation on April 1.
