The School Board got its first look at the proposed 2010-2011 budget Thursday night. The new budget calls for some staff shifts, but no net loss of personnel from the current year.
School District Finance Director Lisa Matthews said she anticipates revenue of $25.9 million for the coming year, with expenses of $26.6 million. She told the Board the shortfall will be made up from cash on hand, essentially unspent funds from the current year.
But, that doesn’t mean the district isn’t in trouble. Looking ahead, School Administrator Chris Borgen said “We continue to face a lot of challenges and threats. The next cuts will be into the heart of our programs.”
Board member Mitch Everton said “Basically, we have one more year. Hopefully, we will see some money coming back,” adding, “I see us hitting the wall in 2 years.”
Borgen said the school district and board will need to look at priorities. “What is the biggest bang for our buck. These are some of the tough decisions we’re headed toward.”
The School Board has scheduled a public hearing on the budget for 6:15 pm on August 19, with a final vote scheduled after the hearing.