Board places amended 2025–26 budget on 30‑day display; interim business director flags ED fund deficit

Interim Business Director Todd Pence presented the proposed amended 2025–26 budget and asked the board to place it on 30‑day display. Pence said updated beginning fund balances and audit adjustments require the routine spring amendment, and he outlined an estimated ED fund deficit of roughly $4 million if current trends continue.

Pence cautioned that the district faces two costly months in the summer (accelerated payroll and three‑pay months) and stressed that the district needs to prioritize early‑childhood investment while stabilizing finances. He said the district expects modest increases in state funding (EBF) but also flagged potential local revenue impacts from Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts and suggested exploring whether redevelopment agreements could provide relief to the district.

Pence recommended hiring an outside accounting firm for a process review and cleanup ahead of the next audit (estimated cost $10k–$20k) to standardize account descriptions and reconciliation procedures. Trustees approved placing the amended budget on display; the document will be posted online and available in the superintendent’s office.