Carlinville board adopts $19.13 million FY2026 budget despite operating shortfall

The Carlinville CUSD #1 Board of Education voted unanimously Sept. 29 to adopt its Fiscal Year 2026 budget after a staff presentation that outlined revenues of $19,130,284 and a projected operating shortfall.

Heather DeNeve told the board that the district "has budgeted for $19,130,284 in revenue," with the largest share coming from property taxes and about $1.5 million from federal sources. She said revenues are expected to be lower than last year by $574,420 and that the district currently expects operating expenditures of $17,331,901 against expected operating receipts of $16,408,784, leaving the operating funds unbalanced but within state parameters that do not require a deficit reduction plan.

The presentation highlighted that salaries and benefits account for roughly 79.8% of the 2026 budget and identified planned purchases including cafeteria replacement equipment and new Chromebooks. Following discussion, board member Kyle Bradley moved to adopt the budget and Brandon Little seconded; the roll-call vote was 4-0 with three members absent and the motion passed.

The board did not adopt a formal deficit-reduction plan at the meeting, noting staff will continue monitoring revenues and expenditures and will publish required reports before the Oct. 1 deadline, per Dr. Becky Schuchman.