Sahuarita Unified Board adopts conservative, balanced 2024–25 expenditure budget

The Sahuarita Unified District governing board adopted its 2024–25 expenditure budget after a public hearing and staff presentation.

Superintendent Dr. Valenzuela recommended adoption and described the proposal as "conservative" and "fiscally sound," saying the operational expenditure plan is about $50 million and the capital program includes roughly $4.6 million in planned expenditures with additional capacity. Chief Financial Officer Lisette Huey presented the budget details during the required public hearing and answered board questions about the district’s maintenance-and-operations calculations and carry forward. Huey reported an estimated carry-forward of approximately $10,631,285 and said the district qualifies for a 14% M&O override that is included in the adopted plan.

Board members praised the district’s fiscal posture. Dr. Valenzuela said the budget assumes zero enrollment growth for planning purposes and emphasized steps taken to preserve reserves. One board member noted that the carry-forward balance acts as a district “savings account” that provides a buffer for unexpected costs.

The public hearing portion included the required presentation and opportunity for questions; no substantive changes were made between the proposed and adopted versions. The board moved, seconded and adopted the budget by voice vote.

The adoption completes a statutory step required before the new fiscal year; staff said they will continue to monitor legislative changes that could affect future allocations and will return with any required adjustments.