The Foothills School Division has passed their 2018/2019 preliminary budget.

Revenue for 2018/2019 year is projected to be $94,845,397 with expenditures at $96,680,863 with the difference to come out of operating reserves.  

Assistant Superintendent Drew Chipman says they are using up their reserve funds to fit with the provincial rules.

"Because we have operating reserves we are allowed to go into a deficit budget, " said Chipman. "We should be able to do that for two more years following this year at which time we will be close to out five percent reserve level and that is what the government is asking boards to look at."

The division is looking at budgeting for a decrease of 31 students next year.

"That is based on our March numbers and extrapolating them forward. It wouldn't surprise us if we are up. We try to be a little bit conservative in our estimates. It is a lot easier to add staff and supports in the fall rather than take them away."

 

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