SP Budget Watch
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Budget Timeline

Key dates in the FY27 budget process. The budget season typically runs from December through June, ending with a public referendum vote required by Maine law.

Dec 4, 2025
Initial Budget Presentation
Superintendent introduces the FY27 budget landscape and structural gap. Four broad ideas for exploration presented.
Jan 12
School Board Meeting
Board discussion on budget constraints and timeline. Revenue projections and fund balance status reviewed.
Feb 4
School Board Meeting
Elementary reconfiguration analysis refined to three primary options. Grade-level campus model introduced.
Feb 9
Budget Workshop
Detailed analysis of reconfiguration savings. Three tiers of options: close one school, reconfigure grades, or deeper cuts.
Mar 2
Budget Workshop I
Nine elementary reconfiguration options formally presented with evaluation matrix. Leadership ranks top three options.
Mar 16
Open Conversation with District Leadership
Community Q&A session on the budget proposal. Public input opportunity.
Mar 18
Pink Slips Issued
Reduction-in-force notifications sent to affected staff members.
Mar 19
City Council Meeting
Council discusses school budget implications. Consent order to set FY27 budget public hearing.
Mar 23
Budget Workshop II
Two elementary closure options presented. Personnel and non-personnel reductions detailed. Decisions expected.
Mar 30
Budget Workshop III
Continued board deliberation on the budget and elementary reconfiguration.
Apr 14
City Council Budget Workshop #1
Council reviews the school budget allocation within the overall city spending plan.
Apr 28
City Council Budget Workshop #2
Continued council review of the municipal budget including school allocation.
May 5
City Council Budget Vote (Expected)
Council votes on the overall city spending plan that includes the school allocation.
May 12
City Council Budget Workshop #3
Final council workshop if needed before referendum.
Jun 9
Public Referendum Vote
Maine law requires a public referendum on the school budget. If voters reject, the board must revise and re-present.

What Happens If the Budget Fails?

Under Maine law, if voters reject the school budget at the June 9 referendum, the school board must revise the budget and hold another vote. This process can repeat until a budget is approved. During this period, the district operates on a continuation budget (spending at the prior year's level).