Riverview board amends advertised 2026–27 budget to include 1.25% millage increase

The Riverview School District board moved to amend the district's advertised proposed 2026–27 general fund budget to include a 1.25% millage increase, bringing the district's millage to 25.8294, during the public meeting recorded in the transcript. The board said the change would close an estimated personnel deficit and preserve current positions while the district completes its final budget work.

Board members and district finance staff described a range of millage scenarios during debate, noting that the preliminary proposal had been presented at a 0% increase as a baseline. Finance staff said a 0.3294% increase would eliminate the immediate $235,000 shortfall tied to personnel and two proposed teaching positions. The board discussed other options (1.25%, 1.96%, 2.94%, 3.5% and the maximum index) and how each would affect the district’s capacity to fund renovations and long-term staffing.

“If we can get to an agreement this evening on 0.3294 it solidifies our direction,” the presiding board member said while urging colleagues to choose a floor that preserves staff. Director of finance and operations Louvert summarized options and recommended a fuller index in some scenarios based on prior committee material.

Trustees also discussed a potential $8 million bond for facility work and whether to use capital reserves—about $5.6 million on hand—to reduce borrowing. Board members emphasized timing around interest rates and whether partial use of capital funds plus borrowed money would best serve the district over several years.

After discussion the chair moved to amend the advertised budget to 1.25%; the motion was seconded and the board approved the amendment by roll call. The board directed that the revised proposed budget be advertised for public inspection and reminded the public that the budget would be finalized at a future meeting; a public hearing was scheduled for 06/08/2026 at 7 p.m. in the Riverview Junior-Senior High School library.

The vote amends the advertised proposal; trustees emphasized the decision is not the final budget adoption. The board’s finance chair said staff will provide more detailed information, including bond counseling, at an upcoming study session so the board and public can evaluate long-term impacts.