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Aspen School District cites thin reserves and staff cuts as key reasons to consider a ballot measure
Summary
School leaders told the council the district cut seven positions to balance recent budgets, has a fund balance around $2.3 million (about 7% of the general fund), and may need new revenue to retain staff and maintain programs.
District and school-board leaders described a precarious fiscal picture and a near-term need to shore up reserves to avoid program cuts and staff losses. A district representative said an expense task force reduced staff by seven positions and that operating reserves have dropped to roughly $2.3 million, about 7% of the general fund.
Board and district officials said the loss of state support and rising costs for health care and salaries left the district little choice but to consider asking voters for more revenue. The superintendent said the district is trying to preserve class sizes, outdoor education and extracurricular programs while also ensuring competitive pay to retain teachers and staff.
District officials emphasized they aimed to be judicious with any new revenue and that stakeholders prefer a balanced approach that might include timing a larger ask in a general election or exploring countywide options to broaden the base.
