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Keystone Central board confronts roughly $2.1M shortfall, sets vote on final budget next week
Summary
Board members reviewed the final general fund budget, heard that staff captured roughly $4.4 million in recent reductions but still face an estimated $2.1 million deficit, and set a vote for next week while weighing cuts, tax options and the risk of state intervention.
The Keystone Central School District board reviewed its final general fund budget at a June 11 work session, with business manager Joanie McIntyre reporting multi‑million‑dollar reductions in recent months but an outstanding shortfall the board estimated at about $2.1 million. The board directed administration to prepare state filing paperwork and scheduled a formal budget vote at next week’s voting session.
Why it matters: Board members said the district must balance preserving academic programs with fiscal reality. Joanie told the board her office implemented significant reductions recently; board discussion focused on a mix of further cuts, the political and practical implications of raising taxes, and the legal consequences if the district cannot cover expenses.
Board members repeatedly urged shared sacrifice. “Everybody needs to play ball — this can’t just be one way,” said board member Manny, urging taxpayers, staff and officials to consider multiple options. Another board member noted the statutory constraint facing districts, telling fellow members, “We are required by law to keep our doors open,” and warned that state oversight or receiver actions are a consequence the district seeks to avoid.
Administrators described the mechanics of the state filing and timetable: business staff have prepared a budget variant and must upload the package to the state’s PDE system after the board gives direction. Joanie said the finance team has reduced costs substantially over the last three months and will continue to seek additional savings; the board noted roughly $4.4 million of identified reductions in recent months but confirmed that even after those savings the updated budget shows a deficit that must be addressed.
What’s next: The board directed staff to finalize materials and will consider the budget in a public vote at the upcoming voting session. Board members said they would evaluate options — including targeted reductions, program adjustments, or potential tax action — rather than rushing unilateral cuts that would harm students. The vote and any motioned adjustments will be recorded at next week’s meeting.
