District budgets $6 million shortfall

Clarkston Community Schools expects $80.9 million in revenue next school year, according to the budget approved unanimously by Clarkston Board of Education, June 22.
Spending is projected to be $86.9 million, an increase of $5.5 million over this past year, including more for utilities, retirement, health care, and pay increases.
Revenues are expected to increase $3.7 million compared to last year, including a two-percent increase in property tax on businesses and other non-homesteads, for $506,000 more, mostly due to elimination of tax delinquencies this past year.
With 30 extra students compared to last year, state funding is also expected to increase, by $300,000. Federal funding is projected to increase to $3.6 million, including $1.2 million in stimulus money for special education.
The district’s fund balance will cover the $6 million difference, dropping it from $11.8 million to $5.8 million, about 7 percent of the budget.
‘It does not meet the board fund-equity goal of 10 percent,? said Dave Reschke, deputy superintendent. ‘It’s a difficult challenge, but I believe we can bring it closer in line.?
? Phil Custodio