IU 9 operating budget vote ends in 4–4 tie; board debates state funding formula

The board held a roll-call vote on the Intermediate Unit (IU) 9 operating budget for fiscal year 2026–27, presented at $139,655. During tallying the clerk reported four approve votes and four disapprove votes; the board recorded the result as a tie and did not adopt the budget at the meeting.

During discussion leading up to the vote, the Superintendent explained the history behind some sending districts’ 'no' votes: they are often intended to signal disagreement with the state funding formula rather than dissatisfaction with IU services. She explained that the local effort capacity index (LECI) and historical taxing patterns influence the district’s calculated share and said she had drafted a letter for state legislators to review funding options. She told the board she would refine and send the letter after the vote.

Board members asked whether a 'no' vote prevents the district from ultimately paying the assessed amount; the Superintendent responded that the assessed payment still occurs and the past practice had been to use a 'no' vote to register a policy message.

The IU 9 roll call was reported aloud by the board officer: "So there are 4 disapproved, and 4 approve. So we have a tie." The Superintendent encouraged focusing advocacy on legislators who control the funding formula rather than the IU itself.

Next steps: the Superintendent said she will finalize and send the drafted letter to state legislators and the board will consider its position in future budget discussions.