APPLETON, Wis. (WBAY) - A growing deficit, now reaching $13 million, is causing concern in the Appleton Area School District.

Tuesday night, district leaders announced two public sessions for people to provide feedback and learn about the expenses as a solution is sought.

An April referendum could be on the horizon in Appleton.

“This has happened really quickly for us in terms of how in two years’ time we’ve gone from having a balanced budget to a $13 million structural deficit,” Greg Hartjes said.

According to Appleton Superintendent Greg Hartjes, their deficit stems from district revenue and minor state budget increases not being able to keep up with rising inflation.

He says other alternatives to a referendum could be staff cuts and/or school closures down the road.

A potential re

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