Credit: Tom Sofield/LevittownNow.com
The Pennsbury School Board will vote on a new 2015-2016 budget next Thursday.
During a final budget presentation this week, business manager Dan Rodgers said the $187.8 million proposed budget included a tax increase 2.85 percent. A budget gap of $1.2 million remains, according to officials.
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Through attrition and “rightsizing,” Rodgers and the administrative team were able to reduce the budget by $2.6 million. He said at least five teaching positions will be cut through attrition. Fringe benefits, utilities and other budget items were assessed to find some savings.
Superintendent Dr. Kevin McHugh said no teacher furloughs will be required and class sizes will not be greatly impacted.
Earlier this year, the district received authorization from the state to raise the tax millage rate above the 1.9 mills limit. The application to raise the limit cited mounting pension and special education costs. The Act 1 limit is part of Pennsylvania’s property tax law.
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Rodgers said some money is being set aside in advance of possible construction at Pennwood Middle School. He noted additional money is also being budgeted for technology upgrades.
The cuts will require the middle schools to share one librarian, saving $150,000 per year. McHugh said one librarian position elimination bothers him but students will not see a major impact.
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The budget that will be voted on next week does not include any revenue from the state, which might not be known until June 30.
