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Burlington board approves 2026–27 certified budget and sets proposed levy of $16.19
Summary
The Burlington Community School District board approved the district's certified 2026'27 budget and levy on April 13, 2026, after a presentation on state funding, enrollment declines and levy components. Officials said the rate will result in roughly $721 in school taxes on a $100,000 home using the example shown to the board.
The Burlington Community School District Board of Education approved the district's certified budget and levy for fiscal year 2026'27 at its April 13 meeting following a detailed staff presentation on state funding, local assessed valuation and enrollment trends.
In a presentation to the board, the district's budget presenter explained that the certified budget sets the maximum amount the district may spend next year and directs the county to levy property taxes to support that spending. The presenter cited a proposed combined levy of $16.19 and used a $100,000-home example to show an estimated school tax of $721 for next year as presented to the board.
Why it matters: the certified budget determines the district's spending authority across instruction, support services, non-instruction programs and construction, and it signals how property taxes and state aid will combine to fund schools. Board members emphasized declining enrollment as a central pressure on next year's finances.
Board and staff said the district faces a net loss of 113 students for next year; the presenter reported that assessed valuation rose about 6.4% from the prior year. The district also cited a budget-guarantee amount the staff presented during the hearing. On a per-pupil basis, staff said the state's regular program funding for next year was shown as $8,148 per student in the presentation.
Staff walked the board through revenue components and categorical funds that affect the general fund, including special education, teacher salary supplements, professional development and dropout-prevention allocations. Presenters noted that despite a modest statewide allowable growth figure, enrollment declines reduce a district's net new revenue; the board was told the district's regular-program revenues are projected to decline compared with the prior year.
After discussion and trustee questions, a board member moved and the board voted to approve the certified budget, spending authority and levy rate as presented. The motion passed by voice vote with no recorded opposition.
What's next: the certified budget will be filed with the county as required; routine budget monitoring and any needed budget amendments will return to the board as required by law.
