Kaneland invites feedback on budget cuts

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Updated: March 24, 2012 11:25PM

Kaneland school officials are looking at mid-February for outlining $1.1 million in budget cuts, and for possibly holding a forum to get public input on what should be cut and what should be spared.

Last month, the School Board directed the administration to come up with a plan to cut $1.1 million to reduce the deficit in the next fiscal year budget.

Superintendent Jeff Schuler said specific cost reductions will be presented on Feb. 13.

The administration also will present a recommendation on student user fees. Schuler said it would be beneficial to consider the potential areas of cuts before deciding on whether to raise student fees. The superintendent said a $20 increase on certain user fees can generate an estimated $100,000 in additional revenue.

The School Board left open the idea of holding a community forum in mid-February on the cost reductions.

“I found the forums the last few times rather frustrating as a board member because these are such tough decisions to make,” board President Cheryl Krauspe said.

“People would come out and lobby for their favorite cause without offering suggestions for cuts. We need to hear the lobbying, but we also need to hear what can be sacrificed.”

Kaneland residents can submit feedback by visiting the community feedback tab at www.kaneland.org.

The School District has set a target of March 12 for a final decision.