Washtucna board approves 2026–27 budget resolution after hearing

The Washtucna School District board approved Budget Resolution 25‑13 on a voice vote after opening and closing a budget hearing earlier in the meeting. Staff presented the budget packet, describing capital projects tied to grants and transportation purchases and saying the district remains short of a fully balanced general fund for the coming year.

“That's almost a 160,000 over budget,” said the staff member presenting the packet, summarizing the remaining shortfall and the contingency items—retirement payouts, long‑term substitutes and unexpected legal fees—that the budget still includes. The presenter also said the district expects to start the year with a fund balance between about $1.3 million and $1.4 million.

Board members voted to adopt the agenda, close the budget hearing and then approve the resolution after brief discussion. The presentation noted capital project spending of a little more than $700,000, funded in part by grants the district expects to draw down next year (including a retainage on a solar grant and indoor air quality and small‑district modernization grants). Staff said transportation planning included budgeting for a recently‑seen van and leaving residual fund balance available should the board opt to purchase a bus.

The district will finalize appropriations and move into the new fiscal year with the adopted resolution; the board did not amend numbers during the meeting.