Board sets public hearing for FY2026 budget amendment after staff outlines $7.1 million changes

At the April 13 meeting the Sioux City Community School District board set a public hearing for May 11, 2026 on a proposed FY2026 budget amendment totaling $7,100,000.

Finance officer Patty Blankenship told the board the amendment reflects increased grant and categorical expenditures (with offsetting grant revenue), two new large software subscriptions treated as capital outlays in year one (Canvas and a Heartland phone‑system item), additional instructional positions added after the adopted budget, higher wage settlements, a memorandum of understanding (CSPA) that raised wages, increased food‑service costs, and timing differences for sales‑tax projects. She presented a fund‑level breakdown showing most amendment activity in the general fund, sales‑tax fund and school nutrition fund.

Blankenship recommended the board set a public hearing so the district can publish notice and receive comments; the board voted to set the hearing for 05/11/2026 at 6 p.m. at the Educational Service Center. The motion passed unanimously.

Why it matters: The amendment increases recognized expenditures to align with grants and contractual changes; a public hearing provides required transparency and an opportunity for community input before final approval.