Grandview Heights Schools' Five-Year Forecast: A Stable Outlook for the Future 

The Grandview Heights Schools Board of Education recently approved the district’s updated 5-year forecast and we are pleased to share that the financial outlook remains stable.  The 5-year forecast is a strategic tool that helps the district anticipate financial trends, monitor cash flows, and plan for future levy needs, and allows the district to make informed decisions that prioritize the educational needs of students while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Financial Stability

The overall forecast remains financially stable.  However, there are a number of uncertainties that could impact the district's finances in the coming years, including:

• State budget: The district is closely monitoring the impact of two upcoming biennial budgets and how implementation of the new state funding formula, the Fair School Funding Plan, may impact its finances.

• Legislative changes: Proposed legislation, especially concerning property taxes, could have significant implications on the district's future tax revenue.

• Economic factors: Recent changes in interest rates have resulted in increased investment income for the district.  Future rate changes will continue to have a direct impact on the district's revenue projections.

• Labor relations: Future negotiations around wages and benefits post-2025 may impact the district’s expenditure projections.

• Local developments: The Grandview Yard development generates a significant source of funding for the school district.  Assumptions regarding the timing of future projects, assessed valuation, and tax rates are all factors that will impact that revenue stream. 

The district's financial team is keeping a close eye on new developments in each of these areas.

Recent Changes to the Forecast

A number of recent changes have taken place since Spring, 2023. Franklin County is currently undergoing a property reappraisal with property values in the Grandview Heights School District expected to increase by 17%.  While increases in property valuation do not generate additional tax revenue on voted tax levies, the district does expect about a 2%, or $220,000, annual increase from inside millage.

Another significant update to the financial forecast involves the planned AEP substation in Marble Cliff. Recent reports indicate its estimated completion date has been pushed to the Summer of 2025, which postpones anticipated tax revenue collections from 2026 to 2027. Fiscal year 2027 will mark the first year where half of the annual projected revenue increase is expected to be realized.

Grandview Heights Schools appreciates the continued support of the community as we remain focused on our mission to maximize and personalize every student’s learning, while continuing to be good stewards of the tax dollars that you, our taxpayers, so generously provide.