Siuslaw officials present $27.99 million 2026–27 budget and warn of multi‑year reductions

Siuslaw School District 97J administrators presented a proposed all‑funds 2026–27 budget of $27,989,989 and told the budget committee the plan reflects difficult tradeoffs driven by falling enrollment and reduced revenues. Superintendent Andy opened the budget message and said the district’s projected enrollment is down and that some staffing reductions will be required beyond what attrition can cover.

Business manager Cece walked committee members through key pages of the budget book, including historical enrollment graphs, fund summaries, and assumptions. Cece said the district’s budget shows increased costs — including an approximately 12 percent increase in its PACE insurance premium — and decreases in some federal funds. Cece said labor (salaries and benefits) accounts for roughly 80 percent of the budget and that the district is entering the final years of a PERS bond that has reduced costs in prior years but leaves principal payments on the summary other objects line.

Administrators described enrollment estimates in the low‑1,100s average daily membership and noted that the Oregon Department of Education’s forecast reduced the district estimate by about 35 students. That downward shift translates into lower state funding and is driving the need for multi‑year reductions. Superintendent Andy said the administration prepared a laundry list of potential reductions and will provide the board and committee with a detailed list early next week; specific personnel decisions will follow board process and bargaining obligations.