Berks County School Board considers tax increase amid budget challenges

During the recent Exeter Township School Board Committee of the Whole meeting, significant discussions centered around the district's budget and potential tax increases, reflecting ongoing financial challenges that could impact local taxpayers.

The board reviewed the state funding situation, noting that while Exeter received a 1.19% increase in funding—higher than many other districts in Berks County—the increase does not keep pace with inflation. This funding boost is partly due to a tax equity supplement, which is only available to a few high-tax districts. Board members expressed concern that the state may soon exhaust its rainy day funds, leading to a shift of financial burdens back onto local taxpayers.

In addition to budget discussions, the board examined the effectiveness of a program aimed at retaining and recruiting firefighters. The program has seen a slight increase in participation, with 48 individuals qualifying for benefits in 2025, up from 41 in 2023. However, board members acknowledged that while this initiative helps, it still represents a cost to the district, which could be significantly higher if a fully paid fire department were necessary.

The committee also explored various budget scenarios, including a proposed tax increase of 3.25%. If the board decides against this increase, it may lead to cuts in programs and services, including potential staff furloughs. The administration emphasized the importance of board support for the proposed tax increase to avoid drastic budget cuts that could affect educational programs.

As the board prepares to make critical decisions by June, the discussions highlighted the delicate balance between maintaining quality education and managing financial responsibilities to the community. The outcomes of these deliberations will have lasting implications for both the school district and local taxpayers.