The CSD School Board has approved a final budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, which includes a tax increase of 3.75%. The budget outlines general fund expenses totaling $156,447,125, while projected revenue stands at $151,676,407. This decision, made during a special board meeting on July 2, 2025, is expected to increase the district's deficit by $228,022, raising the total deficit to approximately $4.77 million.
The board's approval came after a thorough discussion regarding the implications of the budget and the growing deficit. Some members expressed concerns about the sustainability of the district's financial practices, questioning how continued deficit spending would impact future boards and the community. One board member highlighted the risk of depleting reserves, urging for a more cautious approach to budgeting.
Despite the concerns raised, the motion to adopt the budget passed with a narrow vote of 5-4. The board also authorized the annual tax levy resolution and a real estate tax installment payment plan as part of the budget approval process.
In addition to the general fund budget, the board adopted budgets for the capital fund and food service fund, which are set at $4,770,718 and $12,995,718, respectively. The decisions made during this meeting will have significant implications for the district's financial health and its ability to provide quality education in the coming years.