Burlington school board approves midyear budget amendment; leaders say taxes will not rise

The Burlington Community School District board voted May 11 to approve a midyear amendment to the district’s 2025–26 budget that increases the district’s spending authority for several categories but does not raise property taxes.

Board members and staff said the amendment is primarily administrative: it gives the district authority to pay expected contractor invoices and to cover higher-than-forecast costs in noninstructional areas such as food service. "We are not raising taxes due to this amendment," the board chair repeated during the public hearing and discussion.

Why it matters: The amendment protects the district against timing issues that can push contractor payments across fiscal years and allows the district to cover higher food-service costs driven by rising food prices. Finance staff told the board the amendment draws on existing funds and carryover balances rather than a new tax levy.

What the board approved: The board discussed a proposed increase in the food-service budget — cited in the packet as roughly $224,000 — and additional authority in the construction/expenditure category to accommodate contractor payment timing. A board member moved to approve the amendment and another seconded; the motion carried on a voice vote.

What officials said: Greg (district finance staff) explained that the amendment adds authority in the four major budget categories to ensure the district can pay bills through June 30, and emphasized the change does not represent new spending beyond existing funds and carryover. The chair repeated to the public that property taxes will not increase as a result of this amendment.

Next steps: The amendment gives the administration the authority to finalize payments related to ongoing construction and food-service operations through the fiscal year close. The board took no other formal action tied to tax rates or new programs at the meeting.