Decorah Schools pass 2015-16 budget based on 4 percent Supplemental State Aid

The Decorah Community School Board has passed the recommended budget for 2015-16, based on the best possible funding scenario from the state. That would be based on a 4 percent Supplemental State Aid (formerly known as Allowable Growth). Democrats advocated for 4 percent, while Republicans are holding firm at 1.25 percent. Deadlock remains, as the Iowa Legislature is non compliant with law that states they should have passed school funding 14 months ago.

School districts are now forced by law into submitting their budgets by Wednesday, without the benefit of knowing funding resources.

Superintendent Mike Haluska said that although it is highly unlikely to get the 4 percent, it is important to base the proposed budget on what is needed, and also let taxpayers know the maximum tax levels. At that rate, the assessed evaluation per $1,000 would be $15.08628, roughly consistent with the assessment from last year. At 1.25 percent, the assessment would be $14.97833. The total district budget is about $30.5 million. Budgets will be adjusted when the legislature finally acts.