Appleton school district considers referendum to fix $13 million budget deficit

The district has been paying off the deficit using unassigned funds that have now dwindled to just $1 million.

Watch Kyle Langellier's full broadcast here: Appleton school district considers first operational referendum to address $13 million budget deficit

"It's not wise to pay your house off with your saving account because eventually your savings account runs out. That's what we've done, our savings have dwindled down to none," Superintendent Greg Hartjes said.

The deficit stems from rising costs including staff healthcare, federal funding uncertainty and state-mandated school revenue limits that restrict the district's ability to generate additional income.

"There is no way we can decrease our expenses by $13 million given our inflation remains high," Hartjes said.

The Board of