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Board approves preliminary 2026–27 capital outlay budget amid concerns about shrinking state support
Summary
Finance staff presented a preliminary capital outlay budget showing projected revenues, recommended allocations for central rebuilds, kitchen renovations and safety hardening, and a discussion about using capital funds to cover some operating costs; the board approved the budget unanimously.
District finance and facilities staff presented the preliminary 2026–27 capital outlay budget, emphasizing the continued absence of PECO maintenance dollars from the state, estimated local millage receipts and priorities for capital projects and debt service.
Staff showed projected revenues (approximately $48.4 million before unreserved fund balances and roughly $52.4 million with balances), an estimated $31 million from the 1.5‑mill local capital outlay levy, and noted that half‑cent sales tax estimates and other receipts support planned projects. The presentation highlighted major allocations: adding $10.25 million to a central rebuild fund (bringing the fund closer to a $38 million target), planned kitchen renovations funded from food‑service excess funds, athletic facility work, and site hardening at selected campuses.
Officials cautioned that capital funds are increasingly being used to cover operating‑adjacent costs (for example, transfers to pay leases and certain salaries) and said reliance on those transfers is a long‑term risk. Staff illustrated that if half‑cent sales tax revenue declined, available capital project dollars would shrink substantially. Board members asked about flexibility in line items (for example, a $5 million line that could serve new construction or early debt retirement) and were advised that the budget provides options but any actual transfer or early debt payment would require a separate board approval.
After discussion, the board moved to approve the preliminary capital outlay budget as presented. The motion carried unanimously. Staff said they would continue to monitor revenue projections and return with detailed project plans as implementation proceeds.
