A significant financial report dominated the Edmond Public Schools Board Meeting on September 9, 2025, revealing both promising revenue growth and looming budget challenges. The district's general fund ended the fiscal year with a robust balance of $62 million, a notable increase from the previous year, thanks to higher-than-expected revenues of $221 million. This uptick was attributed to a surge in local property taxes and increased state aid, which collectively contributed an additional $2.9 million over budget.

However, the district's financial outlook is tempered by concerns about future deficits, projected to reach between $6 to $7 million for the upcoming fiscal year. Superintendent Jim stated, “I know I've been the one the last few months talking doom and gloom. This rosy picture will not continue.” Attendance numbers, which directly impact funding, are a particular worry, as they could exacerbate the anticipated budget shortfall.

In addition to the general fund, the building fund also reported a positive ending balance of $16 million, while the child nutrition fund faced minor setbacks due to snow days, resulting in a revenue shortfall of $68,000. Despite these challenges, the child nutrition fund maintains a healthy balance of $2.8 million.

The board also discussed the upcoming estimate of needs for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, which includes a proposed tax rate of 24.07 mills for the sinking fund, aligning with the district's goal to keep property taxes stable. Superintendent Jim expressed confidence in the district's financial management, stating, “I felt really good” about the projections.

As the meeting concluded, the board moved forward with plans to approve the financial statements and estimates, setting the stage for the district's fiscal strategy in the coming year.