Budget Crisis Forces Tough Decisions in Pasadena ISD

In a recent meeting of the Pasadena Independent School District (PISD) Board of Trustees, members gathered to discuss the proposed budget and tax rate for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The meeting, which was conducted in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, began with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a review of the district's financial challenges.

Superintendent Dr. Powell highlighted the district's struggle with a significant budget deficit of nearly $40 million, exacerbated by the expiration of federal ESSER funding. He noted that many school districts across Texas are facing similar difficulties, leading to staff reductions and resource cuts. Despite these challenges, PISD has aimed to protect essential programs and services for students and families.

Chief Financial Officer Ben Poppe presented the proposed budget, which totals approximately $665 million. This includes a local maintenance and operation budget of $543 million, a food service budget of nearly $50 million, and a debt service budget of over $73 million. The budget also incorporates a 2% pay increase for staff, reflecting the board's commitment to supporting its employees.

Poppe outlined the proposed tax rate, which includes a slight increase in the maintenance and operation rate to 0.8855 and a flat rate for debt service. The total proposed tax rate stands at 1.2255, which utilizes the maximum allowable amount of disaster funding without requiring voter approval.

The board concluded the public hearing on the budget discussion, with no public comments received. The meeting will continue with further discussions and a vote on the budget and tax rate later in the evening.