The Tangipahoa Parish School System held its Finance & Audit Meeting on July 25, 2025, where key discussions centered around the sales tax update and its implications for the district's financial health.

Mr. McNeely presented positive news regarding the sales tax, reporting a 6.89% increase for the final month of the fiscal year, contributing to an overall annual growth of 3.2%. He expressed optimism that this growth is sustainable, suggesting that the increases seen post-COVID and after Hurricane Ida are not merely temporary spikes but indicative of a new trend. The discussion highlighted a return to a 4.5% growth trend, which has been consistent over the past three decades.

A significant focus was placed on the EFID fund balance, with Mr. McNeely addressing inquiries from previous meetings. He presented data showing fluctuations in the fund balance, particularly noting a decline following the payment of stipends in November. Despite these fluctuations, projections indicate that the fund should remain above the $4 million threshold for at least three more years, assuming current growth trends continue.

The meeting also included a summary of the 2¢ sales tax, which concluded the year at a 4.4% increase. Mr. McNeely reflected on historical trends, noting that despite past downturns following significant events like Hurricane Katrina, the sales tax has rebounded and is now stabilizing at a higher growth rate. He attributed this resilience to changes in consumer behavior, particularly the shift towards online shopping, which has kept more sales tax revenue within the parish.

Looking ahead, Mr. McNeely conservatively budgeted for a 2% increase in the 2025-2026 budget, while maintaining an optimistic outlook on the potential for continued growth. The meeting concluded with a recognition of December as a particularly strong month for sales tax revenue, hinting at the seasonal factors that contribute to financial performance.

Overall, the meeting underscored a cautiously optimistic financial outlook for the Tangipahoa Parish School System, with a focus on maintaining stability and growth in the face of economic challenges.