Columbia Borough School Board proposes second tax cut in a row

The Columbia Borough School Board voted to advertise its proposed final budget for the 2026-27 school year, with a reduction in the real estate tax rate for the second year in a row.

At its May 5 meeting, the board approved a proposed tax rate of 25.26 mills — down 0.4 mills, or roughly 1.6%, from the current rate of 25.66 mills. For a property owner whose home is assessed at $100,000, that translates to an annual tax bill of $2,526.

The proposed budget projects $35.13 million in expenditures against $34.56 million in revenue, leaving a projected deficit of about $562,000. 

Officials plan to draw from the fund balance to cover the shortfall, if needed.

The board has also set aside $365,470 in committed fund balance reserves to help offset pension obligations under the Public School Employees' Retirement System.

Residents have 30 days to review the spending plan before the board takes a final vote at its June 9 meeting.

[Source: LNP/LancasterOnline]