By SUSAN RUMBLE

Special to The Press

Parkland School Board directors approved the proposed 2024-25 budget during their May 14 meeting.

The plan includes a 5-percent tax increase taking the millage rate to 17.12.

The proposed $236,709,643 budget has a 2.75-percent increase in expenditures over the previous term, and a 1.8-percent increase in revenue.

In addition to funding education programs for the next school year, the budget also will provide support for the Vision 2030 project which involves expansion of the high school and Orefield Middle School and possible construction of a new stadium and related athletic facilities.

The administration reports Vision 2030, projected to cost $210 million, is a major reason the district is asking for a tax increase this year.

To balance the budget and avoid a higher increase, the plan includes an appropriation of $4,136,350 from the fund balance to arrive at a balanced 2024-25 budget.

The owner of the average residential property in the school district assessed at $245,193 will experience a $200 tax increase for 2024-25, or about $17 per month, over the previous year.

There was no presentation of the budget at this time. That occurred at committee meetings and the seminar on April 26.

The vote for acceptance was unanimous.

Board member Chris Pirrotta commented on the financial document.

“This is my first time ever raising taxes,” Pirrotta said. “It doesn’t feel good, but we can give the kids a future.”

Board member David Ellowitch offered his thoughts on the matter.

“The budget is a representation of our values,” Ellowitch said.

Long time board member Rob Cohen also offered his comments.

“This is the largest tax increase I’ve voted for,” Cohen said. “I’m excited we can provide the best education for our children.”

Board President Carol Facchiano discussed what the proposed budget will provide.

“This year’s tax increase provides essential funding that invests in our future while maintaining educational excellence,” Facchiano said. “A key portion allows us to move forward with facility expansion projects that will alleviate overcrowding in our middle and high school grades.”

The 2024-25 budget is available for public review.

Final vote on adoption of the plan is scheduled for the June 18 meeting.