Mill Creek Township SD presents draft 2026-27 budget with proposed 4.3% tax increase

On March 9 the Mill Creek Township School District's Finance & Operations committee received a draft 2026-27 budget presentation that proposes a 4.3% real-estate tax increase and accounts for staffing additions, transportation pressures and a projected $1,000,000 reduction in health-care costs tied to the proposed medical-plan change.

Mr. O'Toole (district administration) led the presentation and described changes that include additions for special-education teachers and aides and a second-shift custodial supervisor, reductions in some stipend positions, and continued investment in capital projects. "This proposed budget does also include a 4.3% tax increase," he told the committee.

Administration said the draft reflects a mix of local, state and federal funding, and it noted that Mill Creek ranks low among Pennsylvania districts on revenue per student while spending rates remain comparatively high. Mr. O'Toole said projected expenditures and assumptions will leave an unassigned fund balance consistent with board policy and that the district intends to present a proposed final in April and approve a final budget in May.

The presentation included what administration described as a realistic forecast for transportation and staffing costs tied to driver shortages and the higher cost of contracted transportation. Administration also noted that the medical-plan savings discussed earlier in the meeting had been incorporated into the health-care line of the draft budget.

Committee members asked for the budget slides and additional backup so they could review more closely; administration agreed to circulate the materials and to return with refined figures at the next meeting.