Committee reviews February variance report; special‑education fund shows negative balance

Finance staff presented the February variance report and answered members’ questions about revenues, expenditures and fund balances.

Britney Altonorf said year‑to‑date spending is roughly $28 million, an increase of about $136,000 compared with February 2025, and that general‑fund spending is at about 51% of budget versus 50% in the prior year. She noted accounting timing related to levies moved some receipts into the appropriate funds after initial posting, reducing apparent fund‑10 revenue this month relative to last year.

On fund balances, Altonorf reported a beginning‑of‑year fund balance of about $10.3 million; current general‑fund balance of about $10.8 million; special‑education fund a negative balance of nearly $3 million; and a net district fund balance of roughly $7.9 million as of the report.

Committee members asked clarifying questions about what drives the special‑education deficit and were reminded that special‑education spending is driven by placement and service needs and that grant revenue and reimbursements affect timing. No formal action was taken; staff will continue monthly reporting.