April 25, 2024

School board to consider 2018 budget

By Justin Jagler

NCSD Director of Business Services Gayle Isaac speaks at a past board meeting as board vice president Robyn Friedman looks on. The Newton school board will discuss the 2018 budget at its meeting on Monday. (File Photo)

The Newton Community School Board of Education will vote on the proposed budget for fiscal year 2018 at Monday night’s regular meeting.

The proposed budget, which was published in the Newton Daily News on March 27, adds up to about $73.1 million. Costs for the new Berg Middle School raised the overall proposed budget, but the general fund has remained in the $30 to $32 million range over the last five years.

The budget vote will be preceded by a 6:45 p.m. public hearing at the EJH Beard Administration Center. Members of the public will be given a chance to share their thoughts on the budget.

The property tax rate of $15.74 per $1,000 of taxable value included in the proposed budget cannot be raised after it was initially published. However, the school board can vote to lower the tax rate.

Also on Monday, the board will consider total package increases for district employees. Meet and confer groups, such as secretaries, head custodians, specialists, supervisors and managers are facing a 2 percent increase. The board will vote on a contract continuation and 1.27 percent increase for administrators.

Superintendent Bob Callaghan and Director of Business Services Gayle Isaac will see an increase of 0.0024 percent in their total packages, if the board approves. There will also be a vote to extend the superintendent contract through 2019-2020.

In other business, the board will take action on a measure to approve construction documents and authorize FRK Architects to receive bids for the new Berg building. In addition, the board will consider increasing meal prices for next school year.

The superintendent’s report on Monday will include a technology committee update, update on the 10-year facility plan and the freshmen orientation video.

The board will recognize a food service donation by St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. Fundraiser requests for Newton High School groups will also be considered at the meeting.

Contact Justin Jagler at
641-792-3121 ext 6532
or jjagler@newtondailynews.com