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RSU#13 officials say $1 million cut forces choices that hit Cushing hard
Summary
RSU#13 representatives told Cushing selectmen that roughly $1 million was cut from the district’s budget, triggering eliminated positions, transportation reductions and a $300,000 facilities contingency; officials said lower student counts and St. George’s withdrawal reduced state subsidy and town input meetings are planned.
RSU#13 representatives told the Cushing selectmen on July 27 that roughly $1 million was cut from the district’s budget, a reduction that local officials said is affecting Cushing more sharply than some other towns.
Loren Andrews, Cushing’s RSU#13 representative, said the district’s reductions included eliminating an assistant principal position, not replacing retired or resigned staff, reductions in the transportation budget and a $300,000 contingency set aside for facilities. “One million has been cut from the original budget,” Andrews said.
Finance Director Peter Orne explained the district’s revenue shortfall: St. George’s withdrawal from RSU#13 reduced overall revenue, the district faces a higher mil rate and a higher property valuation combined with a lower student population has reduced the state subsidy. Orne said RSU#13 receives less than 15% of its funding from the state and that the loss of each student reduces subsidy for the district. He added that initial budget estimates were prepared before year-end numbers were available, which complicated early public presentations.
Selectman Daniel Staples said Cushing ‘‘has gotten hit the hardest’’ among towns in the district. Orne responded that the district will pursue cost savings and examine potential school closures and that the administration plans town-level meetings to solicit input on what towns want in their schools. Andrews also noted that RSU#13 is among 13 districts in the state starting a Pre-K program.
The selectmen did not take formal action on the budget at the meeting; the discussion was framed as an informational update and a preview of upcoming town meetings where residents can offer input.
