LEWISTON — Property taxpayers could see an increase of from 2.2 to 3.9 percent to accommodate the growing needs of the public school system, according to the School Committee at Monday night’s meeting. 

The School Department preliminary budget stood at $69.9 million, a 7.8 percent increase, as of March 4.

Even with that potential increase, the committee will still need to cut $708,000 or more. 

There have been lengthy debates about what areas to cut, including summer programming, teachers, after-school programs and administration. The answer, so far, is there is no easy answer.

“It’s a sad day when we have to decide what will do the least damage to our students,” committee Chairman Thomas Shannon of Ward 7 said.

If there is no tax increase, the School Committee would need to cut more than $933,000. That means teachers, summer programming and administration. 

The School Committee has a week to prepare a presentation to the City Council on why a tax increase is warranted.

The joint City Council and School Committee meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, March 28, at Lewiston High School. It will be open to the public with an opportunity to ask questions and voice concerns.

Another budget presentation will be given to the City Council April 11, and a final decision made by May 3.