January 16th, 2012 by WCBC Radio
The Allegany County Board of Education’s Chief Business Officer Randy Bittinger told the board this month to that fiscal situation will likely get worse before it gets better. He projects at least a reduction of $4.5 million. Last year, state funding was reduced by about $5.3 million, partly because of reduced enrollment. The local school system lost 176 students last year; this year, enrollment is down by 100 students and the rate is expected to continue to slow in the years ahead. But a wealth index based on real estate values actually works against Allegany County further reducing state funds. The Maryland State Department of Education typically releases revenue estimates in late January, and local school systems are beginning to map out calendars for developing budgets….
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