The numbers painted a complex picture of growth, debt and looming budget pressure as Excelsior Springs school officials studied their long-term financial outlook.The discussion unfolded during a recent board work session with Raymond James Public Finance Director Dr. Mike Reik walking leaders through tax levy history, assessed valuation, debt schedules and budget projections. The session centered on how the district compares to peers, how its bonds are structured and what strategies might ease pressure on its operating funds in coming years.Officials reviewed a two-decade history of the district’s total tax levy, which peaked at 5.2762 in 2020-21 and now stands at 5.2262. The presentation showed Excelsior Springs carrying the second-highest levy among six comparable districts, behind Liberty at 5.9277.“Your higher tax levy is only part of the equation,” explained Reik. “If you look at your total assessed valuation, it’s much lower than...