PIERCE, Neb. - The Pierce school board has approved its 2025-26 budget, a decision that's stirring controversy after voters previously rejected a $25.9 million bond aimed at modernizing the district's schools. 

The approved budget includes allocations for three key funds: a $12,492,038 general fund, nearly $1,224,412 for a special building fund, and $614,679 for a qualified capital purpose undertaking fund. This financial restructuring will result in a tax levy increase for local taxpayers.

Superintendent Kendall Steffensen addressed the financial changes, stating, "Our levy went from $0.72 last year to $0.77 in this upcoming year." 

This increase has fueled public frustration, especially given the recent bond rejection. At a public meeting, residents voiced their concerns, with one long-time resident and former board member stating, "I was on the school board for eight years, and what you're doing is wrong. The voters told you no."

Another resident, Cheryl Volk, questioned the board's responsiveness, "What is the point of any of us being at any of the meetings if you are not going to answer any questions or act on the will of the people?"

Despite the public outcry, the board defended its decision, citing maintenance needs within the school district. Steffensen clarified that the proposed general fund figure is a "budget authority" calculated by the Department of Education, and actual spending is projected to be closer to $10.6 or $10.7 million. He explained that the board aims to address maintenance items initially proposed in the bond issue using the funds generated by the budget. 

The approved budget includes significant allocations for various purposes, including depreciation ($802,824), activities ($750,000), school lunch ($750,000), and bond payments ($2,046), in addition to the previously mentioned funds.