Finance & Operations Committee Meeting: June 2025

The Finance & Operations Committee of the Upper Darby School District held a meeting on April 7, 2026, focusing primarily on the approval of the 2025-2026 final budget and an update on the Solar for Schools grant program. The committee reviewed the final general fund budget, which includes a 2.5% tax increase, down from a proposed 3%, supported by updated federal Title II funding allocations. The budget discussion highlighted careful management of fund balances and staffing costs, with a resolution to adopt the final budget scheduled for immediate board vote. The Solar for Schools grant update detailed a $2.4 million state award for solar panel installations at six schools, with potential additional federal funding of $2.3 million still uncertain. The total project cost is estimated at $6.7 million, including necessary energy efficiency upgrades and possible roof replacements costing up to $5.2 million. The committee discussed the tight timeline for procurement and contract approvals due to potential federal funding deadlines, emphasizing the need to proceed quickly with vendor selection and contract negotiations. The board agreed to continue pursuing the project and authorized district administration to move forward with procurement activities, with a formal contract approval anticipated at the August board meeting.