Board reviews FY27 budget changes and accepts $392,559 Community Schoolyards grant for Carlson Elementary

District finance staff presented the FY27 adopted general fund summary and described changes from the proposed to adopted budget: approximately $210,000 in additional revenue (driven chiefly by a $200,000 increase in federal forest funds and finalized school finance adjustments) and approximately $37,000 in expenditure increases (including steps and cost-of-living adjustments and a Warren Tech tuition change). After the adjustments the FY27 summary showed a projected adopted deficit of about $41,000, down from a small proposed surplus; presenters noted conservative budgeting and a reasonable chance of finishing the upcoming year in a positive position pending receipts and savings.

Administration also announced that the district was selected for a Community Schoolyards grant (federal mineral lease proceeds) awarding $392,559 to assist Carlson Elementary (project 26-1). The award letter requires a signed resolution and a signed community-use agreement by Aug. 1, 2026. Staff explained the grant includes an indirect-cost reimbursement (7.5% indirect rate, approximately $36,517) and small yearly maintenance estimates (the presenter cited a $7,000 minimum for maintenance), and the foundation will manage some aspects of the grant. Board members raised concerns about long-term maintenance, insurance, the tenant'partner'lease timeline, and whether playground construction should wait until the tenant's internal project is substantially underway; administration said the grant improves district-owned space and can be returned if the board chooses not to accept it in the business meeting.