Austin School Board members are taking a hard look at how to cut $1 million in spending from the district’s budget for 2000-2001.

Friday, March 24, 2000

Austin School Board members are taking a hard look at how to cut $1 million in spending from the district’s budget for 2000-2001.

Board members learned from the administration Wednesday night that if spending remains at its current level, the district almost could be sure of an operating deficit in the unreserved general fund next year. Estimates indicate the deficit could climb to as high as $714,000.

That’s why schools Superintendent James Hess charged the board with finding $1 million in operating expenses that could be cut.

A public forum on the budget situation will be held early next month. The forum will seek input from residents on how best to resolve the budget shortfall, especially as the board looks at areas in which it can cut spending next year.

Also, Hess said meetings will be conducted with building administrators to seek their input, too.

The district should be applauded in its approach in seeking to remedy its anticipated shortfall. The very fact that residents and parents will be able to offer input as to how the district should deal with any possible budget cuts is exemplary. It’s also necessary.

While there are a few measures in progress in the Legislature that may mean additional funds are headed to the district’s coffers next year, the board shouldn’t count on those funds to alleviate its deficits. A Senate-passed education bill would mean $682,661 in new funding for the district. Meanwhile, the House is looking at a measure that is much smaller in size for the state’s districts. A spending measure needs to pass both sides of the Legislature before being sent to Gov. Jesse Ventura.

While the Senate-approved plan might seem to offer enough to bail out the Austin district’s deficit, it’s not a given and any and all input needs to be directed to board members as they take a good hard look at school spending.

The district is taking a proactive approach in dealing with the budget. Now, it’s up to residents, taxpayers, parents and even students to tell the board what they need to look at in the coming weeks.

Mark April 3 on your calendar and attend the district’s public forum at 7:30 that evening at Ellis Middle School. If you don’t attend, don’t complain when the board starts whittling at district spending. Everyone has an opportunity to be heard.