The Waterloo Board of Education reviewed its preliminary 2025-26 school budget Monday, revealing a slight drop in state aid and rising expenses. Business Administrator Shaun Merrill highlighted a 4% salary increase and health insurance costs that are rising at more than twice that rate.
The tentative $50 million budget is 1.07% lower than last year’s contingency plan. Property taxes are set to rise by 1.9%, while state and federal aid—accounting for 64% of revenue—will decrease by 0.96%. The final budget will go before voters on May 20.
The board also decided to leave a vacant seat unfilled until the election, when voters will choose a replacement for the remainder of the term.
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