SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. (September 17, 2025) — The Western Community College Area Board of Governors has approved a budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year that will reduce ongoing expenses, significantly lowers debt, lowers the levy, and positions Western Nebraska Community College for long-term financial stability.

The general operating budget for WNCC was approved, at $33,819,188, up from $30,737,562 in 2024-25. The increase, however, is fully attributed to the use of cash reserves to pay down debt. That $3.3 million debt payment will save WNCC $730,000 annually and will reduce the institution’s total debt to roughly $2.5 million.

“By reducing debt now and operating with greater efficiency, we are making smart financial decisions that benefit both the College and the taxpayers we serve,” said Board Chair John Stinner. “This budget ensures long-term financial strength for WNCC."

The budget also reflects a 2.35 percent reduction in operating expenses compared to last year. Revenues from state funding and tuition and fees are up modestly (0.64 percent).

With Nebraska’s new funding model for community colleges, WNCC’s property tax levy has been reduced again to 2.1007 cents per $100 of assessed valuations, a decrease of .54 percent from the past year.

“I’m extremely proud of the work that went into this budget,” said WNCC President Greg Dart. “It’s forward-thinking, fiscally conservative, and something we can all be proud of as we look to the future of WNCC.”

WNCC’s grand total of all budgets (operating, building improvement, and self-supporting) stands at $61.7 million, a 5.51 percent decrease from last year's budget.