Board warns charter transfers strain budget; approves developer‑fee increase and orders November election

The Los Altos School District Board of Trustees spent the largest portion of its June regular meeting on budget matters and voted on several fiscal resolutions.

Eric, the districtbusiness officer, presented the proposed 2026–27 budget and multi‑year projections, saying the district will adopt the budget next Monday but must consider current assumptions now. He described several budget pressures including rising utilities, health and welfare costs and insurance. He highlighted a specific local pressure: "so next year our transfer into the charter school is over $12 million of our property taxes," which he said reduces revenue available to the district for staff and programs.

Board members pressed staff on the mechanics and impact of out‑of‑district charter enrollments. Trustees said the transfers (in‑lieu transfers, parcel‑tax share and portable rentals) are substantial and limit the district's ability to fund raises and programs. One trustee observed that reassigning those dollars could fund multiple teacher positions.

During the meeting the board considered and approved several items relating to district finance and operations:

- The board accepted the Measure N citizens' bond oversight committee annual report and the auditor's finding that bond funds were spent for voter‑approved projects; the committee reported no audit findings or recommendations for fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The board approved the acceptance of the audit by motion and unanimous vote.

- After a public hearing and staff presentation of a fee‑justification study, the board unanimously approved resolution 25/26‑17 to increase developer fees. The motion was made by Trustee Stella and seconded by Trustee Jim; a roll‑call vote recorded all yes votes.

- The board unanimously approved resolution 25/26‑18 to order and specify the November 3 election and consolidation requests; the motion was made by Trustee Stella and seconded by Trustee Jim.

Board members said they will continue to monitor revenue assumptions, statutory changes at the state level and federal funding risks. The board did not adopt the final budget at the meeting; adoption is scheduled for the next board meeting prior to the June 30 statutory deadline.