(Editor’s note: At a special meeting May 26, the Whitehall-Coplay School Board approved a reorganization plan to address an approximate $6 million deficit in the 2026-27 budget. The plan, which passed with a 5-4 vote, will include a tax increase and the elimination of staff positions as well as redistribution of duties. A full story from that meeting will appear in next week’s edition. The story that appears below is coverage from the May 18 school board meeting.)

Whitehall-Coplay School Board, at its May 18 meeting, voted against a restructuring proposal, which included possible furloughs and cuts to several district positions as part of efforts to address the deficit.

Superintendent Christopher Schiffert presented a restructuring plan prior to the board’s vote.

Whitehall Township resident Joni Tedesco spoke out against a proposed property tax increase during the meeting, as the district continues working to close a projected $6 million budget shortfall.

“I am deeply concerned about the proposed tax increase that is going to be voted upon,” said Tedesco, a township resident of more than 30 years.

She added, “Senior citizens simply cannot afford this continuous tax increase.”

The comments came as district officials work through budget decisions tied to a $110.7 million tentative budget for the 2026-27 school year. Approved in April, the plan includes a 4.7% property tax increase, the highest allowed under Pennsylvania’s Act 1 index.

In financial updates, the board reviewed the April treasurer’s report, which showed a $5.9 million beginning balance. The district collected more than $3.2 million in revenue and saw nearly $8 million in investments mature, bringing total cash to about $17.1 million.

After expenses and additional investments, the ending balance was approximately $9.95 million.

The board also opened and closed nominations for district treasurer for a one-year term beginning July 1. Board President William Fonzone nominated board member George Williams, and the board approved the appointment.

Several property tax assessment agreements were also approved for parcels on Schadt Avenue and MacArthur Road, setting updated assessed values that will take effect beginning in the 2026 tax year unless changed under law.

The Class of 2027 graduation ceremony was approved for 7 p.m. June 2, 2027, at Zephyr Stadium, with a rain date of June 3.

The district also announced upcoming meetings, including a special board meeting 4 p.m. June 8, followed by committee meetings, and the next regular board meeting 7 p.m. June 22.