Viroqua Area School District previews 2024–25 budget, flags projected deficit and possible referendum

The Viroqua Area School District board voted to accept the district’s preliminary 2024–25 budget on a motion approved at the meeting, while finance staff warned the figures are a working baseline and could change through upcoming wage negotiations and insurance decisions.

Mike (staff member) explained that the preliminary document reflects assumptions on wages and benefits and that the district is still starting negotiations. He said the district "is projecting a deficit, so that could lead us into, potential referendum in, November or April." The board accepted the preliminary budget for filing to meet statutory timelines, with the understanding multiple revisions will follow before final adoption.

In related action earlier in the meeting, the board approved 2023–24 budget adjustments to reconcile salaries, project reallocations and E‑Rate reimbursements. Mike described the 2023–24 adjustments as cleanup tied to finalized wages, step movements and revenue from a capital lease and federal funds for IT switch projects. He said, "I wouldn't expect to see any more dollar increases in the deficit that we're presenting, but that's what we're at here."

Why it matters: The preliminary budget establishes the district’s starting point for contract talks and staffing choices. Board and staff repeatedly stressed that the numbers will shift as collective bargaining and health plan design are concluded; if the gap persists, the district could place a referendum on either the November or April ballot, depending on evolving figures.

Next steps: Staff expects to present updated budget drafts in June and July and finalize a budget for the annual meeting and October certification as negotiations and health insurance assumptions are resolved.