Summers County board hears budget outlook as proposed levy projects $4.7 million in local tax revenue

At its May 14 meeting the Summers County Board of Education reviewed a proposed budget that relies on an anticipated $4,700,000 in local tax collections, a figure staff said is higher than earlier estimates because property values increased and the district received pipeline revenue.

Staff member (S2) told the board the district's projected net local taxes are "the $4,700,000," and said that figure is about $650,000 more than the estimate used when planning earlier in the year. S2 outlined the broader revenue picture: roughly $18.5 million in total estimated revenues, including about $10.3 million in state aid and an estimated beginning balance of $3.0 million.

The presentation highlighted several line items that will affect spending choices. S2 said required charter-school payments will be about $298,000 (an increase of roughly $60,000), substitutes were budgeted at $500,000, and outside professional services (speech, occupational and physical therapy) were budgeted at $310,000. Utilities and transportation are large operating costs; utilities were budgeted for planning at $765,000 and diesel fuel at $200,000. S2 cautioned the board that the district is drawing on carryover to balance the budget and that "things are getting tight."

Board members discussed a recommended library allocation. S2 noted the state's recommendation for library support this year is $16,492, while the district historically budgeted $18,500; the board agreed to take additional information before deciding whether to continue the higher allocation. Chair (S1) moved to postpone action on approving library funds until the May 26 meeting; the motion was recorded and seconded.

The staff presentation also addressed personnel and fixed costs. S2 reported county-level staffing paid from state and county funds amounts to roughly 177.6 full-time equivalents and that salary and fixed costs together account for an estimated $13.0 million of the forecasted expenditures. S2 urged vigilance on spending and noted PEIA and retirement-related cost pressures that reduce the net effect of recent state pay increases for employees.

The board was reminded the final budget documents must be submitted to the state by May 30; staff said they will upload the statements and supporting schedules to the district website and asked board members to send any requested changes ahead of the next meeting.

The budget review will continue at the board's next meeting and the board is expected to vote on the levy and final budget in compliance with the state deadline.