Budget Workshop

The Regional School District 15 held a budget workshop on March 26, 2026, involving members from the Southbury and Middlebury Boards of Finance and Education. The meeting focused extensively on the proposed school budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, discussing key cost drivers such as salaries, benefits, transportation, and special education outplacement costs, which have risen significantly. The board reviewed budget pressures including healthcare cost increases, pension funding, and the impact of student enrollment shifts on town contributions. They debated potential budget cuts, including the social worker position and facilities director role, while emphasizing the need to balance fiscal responsibility with maintaining essential student services and infrastructure. The board acknowledged the challenges of rising costs and the limited state funding, expressing concern about long-term sustainability and the necessity for advocacy. No final budget vote was taken, but members indicated a tentative support for a budget increase around 5.48%, with further discussion planned for the next meeting on April 6, 2026.