The Quakertown Community School Board voted on their final budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year on June 12th.

            A presentation was given to the board in regard to options for possible tax increase.  This included the commitment of a fund Balance from the general fund for the capital projects for 2025-2026 year. The amount will be determined by the administration following the completion of the annual audit. A fund balance above 8% of the operating budget will be committed to capital projects.

            During the presentation, options were provided in regard to tax increase vs. no increase.  At a 0.00% increase, with a tax revenue of $71,891,825, a budgeted deficit would be $12,999,074. Another option was to increase taxes 3.50%, with a tax revenue of $74,529,888, this would increase the revenue by $2,883,312. However, a deficit of $10,361,011 would remain.

            After discussion, there was a vote to choose an option of 2.00%, with a tax revenue of $73,399,290, a tax revenue increase from 2024-2025 $1,752,714 with a remaining deficit of  $11,491,609.

            It was also stated that these numbers do not include $1.2 million in unassigned budgetary reserve and all amounts are subject to change after final calculations.

            Member Jonathan Kern explained that they need to listen to their community in regard to tax increases. "Our retirees have seen their taxes double" he said.  Kern also explained that the Quakertown District has some of the highest taxes in the state.

            Member Ronald Jackson explained that the district's tax millage is higher because they pay competitive salaries compared to New Hope and Doylestown, however, their property assessments are less than those areas.

            Member Chuck Shermer explained the need for the tax increase due to the assessment of data and numbers. "Salaries and benefits increased by $3 million. It was well deserved … we all voted on this", he said.

            "I think a 0% increase is very irresponsible. I don't agree with 3.00%...I'm somewhere in the middle", said member David O'Donnell.

            A motion was made by Chris Spear, second by Joseph Lyons for a 2.00% increase. The motion passed 5 to 4 with members Jonathan Kern, Brian Reimers, Todd Hippauf, Glenn Iosue opposing the motion.