BUDGET MESSAGE 

To: Members of the City Council and Citizens of Caribou

The budget request by the Caribou School Department for school year 2008 - 2009 may be found on the following pages.  In addition, a page is devoted to the method of computing the tax obligation in calendar year 2008.  The final pages of this budget sets forth the legally required articles, which must be enacted by the City Council and ratified by referendum vote.

The budget development process included staff, administrators, and the Caribou Board of Education. 

Due to the state’s revenue shortfall, $36.8 million was cut from general purpose aid to education.  This resulted in the state being unable to meet its commitment to provide 55% of the cost for education by 2008-2009.  Caribou’s share of state revenue increased only 1% ($102,771) over the previous year.  In addition, the complete loss of revenue ($155,000) through the Medicaid reimbursement program set the stage for a very tight budget year. 

The Board worked closely with administration to identify over $385,000 in cuts, including staff, equipment, repairs/maintenance and supplies.  Fortunately, additional balance forward funds were available to help close the budget gap.  

The proposed budget of $15,465,943 reflects an increase of $253,004 or 1.7% over the current budget.  Increased costs for heating fuel, diesel fuel, electricity, two new school buses, technology upgrades, textbook purchases, a 4% increase in health insurance and modest wage and salary increases represent the main contributors to the budget.  

Repair and upkeep of our facilities is important, even in a tight budget year.  This budget includes funds to make necessary repairs to the library and music room roofs at Caribou High School, reconstructing the hallway floors at Caribou Middle School, resurfacing the high school track, and conducting a variety of other minor repair projects. 

In summation, the budget has been developed by all appropriate personnel, exemplifies prudent spending while maintaining a high quality educational program for Caribou students.  We believe that this budget has been carefully prepared, is accurate, and is in the best interest of the City of Caribou.  

Respectfully submitted,

CARIBOU BOARD OF EDUCATION
Franklin R. McElwain, Supt. of Schools

2008 - 2009 Budget  /  Budget Articles  /  Summary of Receipts