The Kingfisher County Excise Board reviewed the Kingfisher Public Schools Estimate of Needs for fiscal year 2026–2027. The district is located entirely within Kingfisher County. The proposed levies include 36 mills for the General Fund, 5 mills for the Building Fund, and 23.42 mills for the Sinking Fund. Anticipated collections total approximately $5 million for the General Fund and $715,000 for the Building Fund. The proposed budgets total approximately $11.6 million for the General Fund and $700,000 for the Building Fund.
During its review, the board discussed a reported carryover deficit of approximately $870,000, a $49,000 line item requiring clarification, and approximately $800,000 in remaining lease obligations that did not appear to be reflected as a reserve. The Board also discussed the distinction between operating leases, such as copier agreements, and capital leases, such as the turf project, and expressed concern that outstanding capital lease obligations should be properly reflected in the budget.
Board members requested further clarification regarding these matters and expressed a desire to meet with District Attorney Tommy Humphries to review applicable budget procedures and safeguards. It was noted that two attempts had been made to contact Mr. Humphries within the preceding 10 days without response.
A motion was made to table consideration of the Kingfisher Public Schools 2026–2027 Estimate of Needs pending receipt of additional information and completion of a procedural review.
The next special meeting of the Kingfisher County Excise Board will be held on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in the Kingfisher County Courthouse Conference Room.
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