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Bethlehem Area SD board approves provisional 2026–27 budget with 4% millage increase
Summary
The Bethlehem Area School District board voted unanimously to approve a provisional 2026–27 budget that draws about $5.1–$5.2 million from fund balance and proposes a 4% millage increase; trustees warned further adjustments may follow once the state budget is finalized.
The Bethlehem Area School District board approved a tentative 2026–27 budget on June 8 that includes a 4% millage increase and uses roughly $5.1–$5.2 million from fund balance to close a projected gap.
Dr. Silva, speaking for administration, said the plan assumes 100% of the governor’s basic and special education proposals, 50% of proposed adequacy aid and "no adjustment to cyber charter" funding in district projections. He told the board the current working estimate is about $385 million in revenue against $390 million in expenses, with the fund balance covering the shortfall.
The approved package includes a millage increase that administration estimated would raise the average Northampton County taxpayer’s bill by about $140 and the average Lehigh County taxpayer’s bill by about $122, based on median home values. On charters, the administration said the district projects roughly $50 million in outflows to charter and cyber operators while basic education allocations total about $56 million.
Board members pressed for detail before final adoption, with several asking that administration return with updated line‑by‑line numbers once the Commonwealth completes its budget process. "We approve based on the most available information we have," Dr. Silva said, noting the board would revisit and repost numbers if there is a material change after state action.
Trustees acknowledged the budget’s tradeoffs. Mr. Lozi said on the record that he opposed some program cuts and worried about burdening staff and families; he nevertheless voted in favor. "I want it on the record that I don't agree with some of the decisions that have been made," he said, while also thanking staff for the work done to get the budget into a defensible position.
The motion to approve agenda items 701–704 was moved by Mrs. Patrick and seconded by Mr. Ashudi. The board took a roll call vote and the motion carried, 8–0.
Administration said it will update the board if the state budget or final federal allocations produce material changes; smaller non‑material differences will be handled through the usual budget adjustment process.
What’s next: The board’s action is a provisional adoption necessary to print tax notices and begin the fiscal year; formal, final budget figures will be presented after state allocations are finalized.
