Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools will see a nearly 4% increase in the 2019 district budget, but the tax rate will decline slightly.  HSE Chief Financial Officer Mike Reuter told board members increased assessed valuations of property within the district boundaries is allowing for the increased spending with little impact on the school corporation’s tax rate.

The $242.85 million 2019 budget will contain some big changes in the local school corporation’s accounting system. Capital projects, transportation and school bus replacement will now be lumped into one Operations Fund.  Reuter says he favors the state law changes allowing more financial flexibility for school corporations.

A public hearing on the budget was held, but no one chose to speak.

The school board is expected to give final passage to the 2019 budget next month.