Bogota superintendent outlines 2026–27 budget, cites state aid and 2% tax increase

The Bogota Board of Education on April 28 heard a presentation on the proposed 2026–27 school budget from Superintendent Damian Kennedy, who said the plan relies on roughly 44% state aid and about 38% from the local property tax levy and would result in an estimated 2% local tax increase — about $139 per average assessed home (roughly $11.58 per month).

Kennedy said the budget reflects priorities on staffing, instruction, special education and student supports while addressing rising costs. "The largest portion, 44%, comes from state aid," he said, and he stressed that the district is investing in counseling, early supports and technology upgrades as well as maintaining facilities funded in earlier referendums.

He outlined spending shares, saying instruction (including regular and special education) is the largest single category, with special education and employee benefits also sizeable; the superintendent said benefits costs have increased "by over 20%," a major driver of budget growth. Kennedy gave a percentage breakdown during the presentation: instruction about 25%, special education 19% and employee benefits 15%.

Board members asked for public questions; the board opened a brief public Q&A period before closing it by motion. No formal vote to adopt the budget occurred at the meeting. Kennedy and the finance committee will continue to refine details as the district moves toward any future adoption steps.

The board did not schedule a final adoption vote during this session; the superintendent indicated the administration and board will continue deliberations and noted the district aims to balance student needs with responsible tax impact.