Acadia Parish board reviews 2025–26 budget showing $632,956 projected deficit; Crowley HVAC included

The Acadia Parish School Board reviewed preliminary 2025–26 budget projections at its July 1 regular meeting, with finance staff reporting a $632,956 projected deficit in the general fund.

Justin, the district finance presenter, said, “Revenue projections right at general fund $90,682,062 and your expenditure projections are $91,315,018 for a projected deficit in this in the general fund of $632,956.” He told the board those figures represent July 1 numbers and could change before formal adoption in August.

The finance presentation noted the projections include a one-time $1,800,000 expenditure for the Crowley High HVAC system. Justin added that the contractor has already billed about $500,000 and that the amount will impact the prior fiscal year’s closing because invoices are still arriving.

Board members asked for clarification about the Crowley project’s scope; a board member asked, “Have they started on Crowley High yet?” Justin replied that work had begun and that billing is on track. The presenter also said the HVAC work is scheduled to finish before the start of school.

The board moved to accept the review. A board member made the motion and another seconded; the motion carried on a voice vote.

The board was reminded that the numbers remain provisional until final accounting and formal adoption expected in August.