Pursuant to Act 1, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) publishes an index percentage applicable to the School District.  The school district real estate tax increase for the next fiscal year is limited unless the proposed tax rate is approved by voters pursuant to a referendum, or the School District qualifies for an Act 1 exception.  As a result of special circumstances covered by an Act 1 referendum exception, a tax rate percentage increase above the index is required to balance the School District budget for the next fiscal year. The School District intends to seek approval from the Pennsylvania Department of Education or to the County Court as required by an Act 1 for an exception allowing increase of the real estate tax as reflected in the School District Preliminary Budget.  The Preliminary Budget is available for public inspection at the School District offices.  On written request by any School District resident or taxpayer, the School District will provide a copy of the referendum exception application. For more information, please visit pennreporter.wordpress.com/school-board/school-budget-act-1/