SLIPPERY ROCK TWP — Paul Cessar, business manager and board secretary for Slippery Rock Area School District, reported that the budget deficit had improved since last meeting, but a tax increase is still likely.

He told the school board at its meeting on Monday, June 2, that actions taken at the meeting, such as the elimination of a benefits coordinator position, lowered the 2025-26 budget deficit to around $445,000.

The figure represents about a $66,600 decrease to the deficit from Cessar’s last calculation of $511,606. As for the property tax burden on residents, the projected millage is now expected to increase by 3.01 mills, rather than 3.46 mills.

Cessar also explained that it was possible the deficit could be reduced further, or even eliminated, before the district opens its doors for the next year.

“From the state budget, there’s still a proposal that would cap the cyber charter school payment,” Cessar said.

If the state budget were to pass as proposed, Cessar said the district would receive over $500,000. However, it falls onto state legislators’ decisions. The impact on the district’s budget will depend on when, and in what form, the state budget is approved.

The preliminary budget, which was approved for public review for 30 days, will be up for vote at the next school board meeting, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on June 23.