Plymouth Schools Face Potential Budget Shortfall, Aging Facilities Challenges

District explores cost-cutting measures while maintaining aging buildings on tight budget

PLYMOUTH, MA - November 4 - Plymouth Public Schools is bracing for a potential funding shortfall in its fiscal year 2026 operational budget, prompting administrators to scrutinize every cost center and line item to prioritize needs equitably.

Superintendent Chris Campbell announced the anticipated budget constraints during a school committee meeting on Nov. 4, stating, "We anticipate that there may be a shortfall of funding in comparison to what our level service currently is able to provide."

While exact figures are not yet available, Campbell expects to have more definitive numbers by the next school committee meeting on Nov. 18. The district began its budget development process for FY26 in September.

"We're exploring every cost center. We've had lots of conversations with our administration about looking at every line item, analyzing our current spending, evaluating our needs and resources, and prioritizing everything in an equitable manner," Campbell said.

The potential shortfall comes as the district grapples with maintaining aging facilities on a tight budget. Matt Durkee, Director of Facilities for Plymouth Public Schools, presented an overview of the department's operations, highlighting the challenges of managing 1,424,795 gross square feet of building space.

Durkee revealed that the district spends an average of $4.46 per square foot each year on supplies, repairs, and facilities department salaries. This figure falls within the national average range of $2 to $6 per square foot for public school maintenance.

However, Plymouth's facilities include two schools over 100 years old, with the oldest building dating back to 1892. Two elementary schools are over 70 years old, and most other buildings, except for the high schools and one middle school, are more than 50 years old.

"Budget concerns definitely worry me, and then a close second would be HVAC," Durkee said when asked about his primary concerns.

The facilities department faces several challenges, including rising supply costs, material and parts expenses, and labor rates outpacing budget increases. Durkee noted that HVAC service rates have increased from $165 to $280 per hour.

Despite these challenges, Durkee emphasized the department's proactive approach and creativity in finding cost-effective solutions. School committee member Katherine Jackson commended the facilities team, saying, "I've heard a lot about you and your team and how you've come up with creative solutions for things like HVAC."

The district is also exploring other avenues to manage costs. Adam Blaisdell, School Business Administrator, mentioned an ongoing transportation study in collaboration with the Massachusetts Association of Pupil Transportation. The study aims to analyze the district's transportation routes and spending to determine the most cost-effective options for future contracts.

As the budget development process continues, the district plans to make draft budgets available to the public around Nov. 25. The first formal budget presentation is scheduled for Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. at the central administration office, with a budget hearing to follow on Dec. 16.

Campbell assured the committee that the district would keep the public informed throughout the process. A budget subcommittee, including school committee members, will also meet during the development process to provide additional oversight and perspective.