BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Bethlehem Area School District’s board voted Monday to move forward a proposed 2025-26 budget that includes a 4.3% property tax increase and a $5.9 million drawdown from the district fund balance.
It's just shy of a 4.8% increase, which would be the highest allowed increase for BASD under the state's Act 1 Index.
State law requires school districts to sign off on a proposed budget before they can vote to adopt it, a procedural step meant to give the public time to examine the district’s proposal before a final vote.
“Things can change and will change, most certainly, but this is where we are right now in the budget process as dictated to us by the state.”Board President Michael Faccinetto
“This is not a final budget,” board President Michael Faccinetto said.
“Things can change and will change, most certainly, but this is where we are right now in the budget process as dictated to us by the state.”
The $373.5 million budget advanced Monday largely resembles the draft version presented in March.
Further changes coming
Further changes likely are coming as Pennsylvania’s budgeting process reaches its conclusion and districts learn exactly how much state money they will get.
Overall, BASD’s projected 2025-26 revenue grew more than $600,000 from March to May, driven by higher-than-expected state gaming revenue.
At the same time, district financial staff cut about $3.4 million of spending, largely by eliminating 20 positions, putting off some capital outlays and spending less on transportation.
“There is some tightening of the belt here, in operational savings and less service"BASD Superintendent Jack Silva
“There is some tightening of the belt here, in operational savings and less service,” BASD Superintendent Jack Silva said.
“They will not directly affect what students or teachers experience in their classrooms, which was always our goal.”
Taken together, the adjustments shrink the district’s expected budget shortfall, covered by spending down its general fund, from nearly $10 million two months ago.
Bethlehem Area School Board will vote on adopting its proposed budget June 9.
