Ansonia schools face roughly $600,000 shortfall after drop in Excess Cost reimbursement, board told

Ansonia school officials told the Board of Education on Feb. 19 that the district is confronting a notable funding shortfall after state reimbursement for Excess Cost declined from an expected 75% to approximately 66%, creating roughly a $600,000 gap in next year’s budget.

‘‘The district needs more money from the state, bottom line,’’ Superintendent DiBacco told the board during the business-administration update. School Business Administrator Mr. Marriott said the district expects the first payment from Excess Cost grant funds "which will offset the $2.7 million" line item but added administrators are adjusting other lines to account for the reduction.

Board members and administrators described the drop as a significant pressure point in budget planning. Mr. Bshara said the city’s preliminary figures have been circulated and the board will continue coordinating with city officials; Ms. DeLibero stressed taxpayers will ultimately face the burden of making up the shortfall if state funds do not cover the cost.

Administrators described a two-part response: identifying small savings in larger line items where possible and pursuing conversations with state representatives about reimbursement timing and levels. Mr. Marriott also noted upcoming contract renewals and an expiring copier contract that will factor into June budget decisions.

The board discussed options for a special meeting with state representatives to clarify reimbursement mechanisms and timing. No new tax or spending approvals were voted on at the Feb. 19 meeting; the board said it will update the public as additional information becomes available.