Board tentatively approves 2026 proposed budget, sets 3.5% millage ceiling

The Big Spring School District board of school directors voted 5–4 on May 4 to tentatively approve a proposed final budget for fiscal 2026 and to set a ceiling tax increase of 3.5%, which would raise the millage to 16.8585. Board president (S1) said, “As the motion states that we would increase, mills to 16.8585 and a 3.5% tax increase,” before calling the roll.

Administration presented a proposed-expenditure total of $67,110,743 and said general-fund revenues with a 3.5% increase would be $67,074,578; the administration noted a remaining shortfall covered by unassigned fund balances of $36,165 and that figures may shift before final adoption. Supporters, including a board member who presented district comparisons, said gradual increases are intended to protect long-term reserves and avoid deeper cuts. Opponents and several public commenters urged tighter spending and independent review; one public commenter (S7) argued the board had previously “squandered” past surpluses and questioned the need for another tax increase.

Why it matters: the board must designate a proposed final budget at least 30 days before final adoption. Under the board’s motion, the 3.5% rate is the ceiling; the board may lower the rate at the June 8 vote but cannot increase it above the approved ceiling. The administration will post the proposed budget for public inspection and return to the board for final action.