Tuesday, May 5, 2026 Board of Education Budget Hearing & Meet the Candidates

The Sweet Home Central School District Board of Education held a budget hearing and meet the candidates event on May 5, 2026. The meeting focused primarily on the proposed 2026-27 school budget of $108.6 million, which includes a 3.3% tax levy increase aligned with the state property tax cap. Key procurement-related highlights included the continued purchase of four electric buses funded partly by state and federal grants, and a $100,000 capital outlay project pending voter approval for door replacements at the high school athletic area. The budget was presented in three parts: administrative, program, and capital, with detailed revenue sources and expenditure breakdowns. Voters will also decide on propositions related to the budget, use of general funds for temporary classrooms, and election of one Board of Education member. The meeting included candidate presentations addressing budget priorities, staff compensation, and educational program support. Additionally, the board discussed vendor management consortium agreements to streamline software procurement and accepted donations for teacher supply kits. No formal votes were recorded during this session, but the budget and propositions were scheduled for a May 19 vote.