Bridget Doyle/TribLocal reporter

Although originally projecting a budget deficit of about $1.7 million for the 2010-11 school year, Hinsdale Elementary District 181 announced that payments from the state have brought the number down to about $574,000.

Troy Whalen, assistant superintendent for business, said the district budgeted to receive nothing from the state, and planned to hold onto this conservative position until checks were in hand.

The district received its first installment from the state on Aug. 10, but Whalen said they are still budgeting to only receive a portion of the allocated total of $948,000.

“Right now, we’re staying somewhat conservative and budgeting for only 75 percent of the total,” Whalen said Monday night.

Whalen said the $1.2 million change could be attributed to the increase in state aid coupled with a reduction in the anticipated cost of employee medical benefits.

The school board unanimously agreed to approve the tentative budget Monday night, and it will be placed on display for 30 days before final vote in September.

bdoyle@tribune.com