Lincoln Development News

Lincoln Public Schools Presents Preliminary 2026-2027 Budget Proposal Amidst Community Forums

The Lincoln Public Schools board is conducting a series of budget forums to discuss the proposed budget for the 2026-2027 school year. The process involves community input through forums and an online form, with final decisions informed by this feedback. Key considerations include salary and benefit increases, strategic investments in special education and social-emotional support, and management of volatility from labor markets and federal funding. The budget also addresses cost savings through initiatives like solar energy and waste diversion. A significant portion of the general fund is allocated to personnel costs, with a notable increase in expenditures related to salary and benefit increases, particularly for special education teachers. The district is also managing decreases in state aid while anticipating an increase in assessed property valuation. The proposed property tax levy remains consistent with the previous year, though individual homeowner taxes will vary based on property value changes. Funds are allocated for facility needs through various mechanisms including the general fund, depreciation fund, and building fund, with specific investments planned for security infrastructure.