District Faces Deficit, Plans Budget Cuts

The board reviewed a projected $17.9 million deficit for next year and discussed a three-year plan to reduce spending, including immediate efficiency measures and multi-year budget cuts. Updates on state funding, property tax challenges, and recent cost-saving moves were also shared. 12mins

Education
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Original Meeting

Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025
6799.0
Full Meeting on YouTube
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Brian Wojcicki
Springfield, Illinois
Government Relations & Legal Services Professional
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In This Video
  • Lincoln Magnet Schools were recognized for receiving the Governor's Hometown Award for a project connecting students with older adults through fishing and technology education.
  • Superintendent Gill described the success of the Illinois Works pre-apprenticeship program at Lincoln Land, highlighting student participation and partnerships with local organizations.
  • Superintendent Gill reminded families about physical and immunization requirements and announced the Empowering All Abilities Conference scheduled for November 15th, highlighting its focus on inclusion and resources for students with disabilities.
  • Superintendent Gill presented the tentative budget and noted that a revised budget would be provided later in the year to reflect actual spending.
  • Superintendent Gill initiated a discussion on deficit spending, emphasizing that no vote would be taken and inviting questions and open conversation about financial challenges.
  • Director Miller outlined the budgeting process, presented the tentative FY2026 budget, and announced a public hearing and board vote scheduled for September 15th.
  • Director Miller explained the district's $23 million operating deficit, the reliance on fund balances to cover shortfalls, and the current warning-tier financial status affecting bond ratings.
  • Director Miller reported that the district is projecting a $17.9 million deficit for FY2026, noting that while current fund balances can cover the shortfall, this situation is not sustainable beyond one year.
  • Director Miller explained mandated categorical funding for transportation, noting a decrease in state reimbursement rates and the resulting budget impact of nearly $1 million.
  • Director Miller explained how salary increases, inflation, and flat state funding are impacting the district's budget obligations.
  • Director Miller discussed the impact of non-taxable properties and tax increment financing districts on the district's property tax base and revenue growth.
  • Director Miller reported $3 million in expenditure reductions, a 96% budget spend rate, increased program fees, and $850,000 in administrative and teacher leader salary cuts for FY2026.
  • Director Miller outlined a three-year deficit reduction plan requiring a 5% decrease in expenditures for the first year, with some budget lines facing larger cuts to address projected increases.
  • Director Miller described the visual representation of the multi-year deficit reduction plan, highlighting the current and next fiscal years and noting future projections for FY2028 and FY2029.
  • Superintendent Gill discussed efforts to identify and implement immediate efficiency measures as part of the district's deficit reduction plan, including soliciting ideas from Cabinet members.
  • Director Miller announced a public hearing on the budget scheduled for September 15th and encouraged board members to reach out with questions prior to the vote.
  • President Austin announced the next regular board meeting date, noted an upcoming Teacher Institute Day with no school, and referenced the attached Freedom of Information report.
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