Community members packed the house at a school board meeting that lasted nearly four hours Tuesday night, where the district’s newly finalized budget was the main topic of discussion.
In a 7-2 vote, the board approved the district’s final budget after debating two proposals—one with no tax increase and another with a 2.88% tax increase. The board ultimately approved the budget that includes the tax increase.
Board members say the increase was necessary because there was no tax increase last year, and the district has not received the state funding it was expecting from Harrisburg.
The additional revenue will help support students and expand athletic programs.
Erie News Now asked board members why a tax increase was needed if the district is not currently operating at a deficit. The question comes after 17 student-athletes voiced concerns about the condition of the baseball field and tennis courts.
The proposed renovation of Ainsworth Field is estimated to cost $11 million.
Board members explained that if the district receives the anticipated state funding from Harrisburg, those dollars would instead be used for capital improvement projects, including renovations to Ainsworth Field. If that happens, the district says it would result in a 133% increase in athletic funding.
We also spoke with Treasurer Brian Cheese about the district’s $313 million budget.
Tomorrow, we’ll take a closer look at the facilities and why students say improvements are needed.