Public Budget Hearing and Board of Education Regular Meeting - October 19, 2026

At the La Crosse Public Schools Board of Education public budget hearing and regular meeting on October 19, 2026, the Executive Director of Business Services presented the preliminary 2026–27 operating budget. It projected $101.5 million in revenue, $101.8 million in expenses, and a $345,000 deficit; no action was taken on the preliminary budget. The presentation also noted the final $9.5 million installment of the $53.5 million referendum would be recorded this year and that $2.7 million would continue to be allocated to board-approved capital improvements. The board tabled levy certification until its October 26 meeting. Members discussed tracking budgeted projects against actual results, with administration agreeing to provide additional comparisons.

The board approved the superintendent’s consent agenda, including Hogan Elementary project change orders for access controls, roof fastening, fire-rated glass, brick selection, additional display boards, and an HVAC bulkhead. Administration said the approximately $30 million project remained on time and within its planned contingency. The agenda also included a recommendation to award the State Road kitchen renovation bid to Fowler and Hammer; the consent agenda was approved, though no bid amount was stated. Separately, the board tabled a proposal to join social-media youth mental-health litigation for additional information; officials estimated a possible recovery of about $40,000, with no direct monetary cost but some staff time required.