Clintondale presents proposed 2026–27 budget and seeks a 2‑mill Headlee override on Aug. 4 ballot

Kevin Teratula, the district’s chief financial officer, told the board June 8 that the district’s final 2025–26 amendment recognizes approximately $2.46M in new restricted grants, a $1M insurance payment for flood repairs and enrollment adjustments that together produced a net operational shortfall for the year. Teratula said audited enrollment changes reduced foundation revenue and, combined with expenditures and transfers, leave a projected 2026‑27 operating shortfall.

For the 2026–27 fiscal year the administration projected an operating loss of about $2.99 million and an ending fund balance that would fall to roughly $2.4 million (about 7.9% of expenditures). Teratula explained the Headlee/Headley roll‑back calculations and said the district’s voted operational millage totals 17.5558 mills; the state expects 18 mills so the district plans to ask voters on Aug. 4 for a 2‑mill override (Headlee override) that would restore local foundation funding to state expectations and protect operations through 2031. He emphasized the override will not affect primary homeowners (it targets non‑homestead properties under Michigan law).

Teratula outlined outreach plans (student flyers, district messaging, town halls) and asked the board to support communication. Trustees asked for more community‑focused messaging and suggested the finance committee assist with outreach ideas. Teratula said he will host town halls and provide detailed FAQs on the district website.

Next steps: administration will post additional details, hold town halls and return with budget adoption actions at the June 22 meeting; the millage question will appear on the Aug. 4 ballot.