Although recognizing the economic benefits to the Lehigh Valley from the Eli Lilly manufacturing plant proposed for Upper Macungie Township, Parkland board members hesitated to commit district revenue to the tax abatement plan associated with the project.

Through estimates supplied by the Lehigh County Office of Tax Abatement, Parkland would start its commitment at $1.3 million in year one for a $68 million assessment on the company and $2.1 million on a $105 million assessment.

The 10-year tax abatement plan was developed as an incentive to encourage Eli Lilly to locate in the Lehigh Valley with assistance from the Local Economic Revitalization Act know as LERTA.

Board vice president Chris Pirrotta noted the manufacturing operation will benefit the entire Lehigh Valley, but this plan says nothing specific about Parkland.

“Can we say to residents we’re going to raise your taxes to give to this big company? It is our responsibility to put our students first. In our financial situation, this is irresponsible. I’m shocked we’re still talking about it,” Pirrotta said.

Board member Jon Macklin observed Parkland is the one school district in the Lehigh Valley being asked to bear an economic load for the company.

“I feel this would be a massive financial loss for the Parkland School District,” Macklin said.

Director Carol Facchiano referred to the district’s 2026-2027 budget which in February was standing with a $12.4 million deficit even with a possible tax increase up to 3.5% and an appropriation from the fund balance.

”It’s all coming down to money. I’m concerned about programs and staff,” Facchiano said.

Board member Lisa Roth noted Eli Lilly will come in and make money from the plant.

Our job is to do what is best for our community and our children we are educating,” Roth said.

During the public comment period, resident Tara Houser stated the district would have to give amounts saved from attrition to meet the abatement commitment.

“Not only Parkland students will work there. They’ll come from all over. It’s a big loss for us, a small amount in their scheme of things,“ Houser said.

The matter will be brought forth at the May 12 board meeting, after updated figures are derived from the May 1 budget seminar.