EDUCATION

Local governments approve 2026-27 budgets with varied measures

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United States. Local school boards and municipal councils approved fiscal 2026-27 budgets this week: DuBois Area School Board unanimously approved a $79.4 million general fund plan, Selma Town Council adopted a $32.9 million spending plan on June 23, Peabody approved a $101.9 million school budget, and Harlingen passed a $198.3 million general fund budget. These decisions include staffing reductions, employee pay adjustments, maintained property tax rates in several jurisdictions, and utility rate increases; Peabody cut about 11.7 full-time equivalent positions, Selma granted a 5 percent cost-of-living raise alongside water and sewer increases, and Harlingen projects lower enrollment and has enacted staffing and central-office savings to stabilize reserves.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

April: Harlingen reports a $31.1 million fund balance after prior reserve withdrawals.
June 23: Selma Town Council unanimously adopts a $32.9 million budget effective July 1.
This week: Peabody City Council approves $216.9 million city budget and $101.9 million school budget with a 9-2 school vote.
This week: DuBois Area School Board unanimously approves a $79.4 million general fund budget with no tax increase.
This week: Harlingen school board passes a $198.3 million general fund budget with staffing adjustments to address enrollment decline.

Why This Matters to You

Your local school and town budgets directly impact your life. They determine teacher staffing, utility rates, and property taxes. For example, Selma residents will see a 5% cost-of-living raise but also water and sewer rate increases. If you have kids in Peabody schools, there will be fewer staff next year.

The Bottom Line

These budget decisions reflect the ongoing challenge to balance education quality with fiscal responsibility. Harlingen's lower enrollment led to staffing cuts to stabilize reserves. Stay informed about your local budget decisions. They shape your community's future. Worth forwarding if you know someone who cares about local education.