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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Iowa school districts including Ottumwa are waiting on a decision regarding budgets.

The Democratic Iowa Senate is proposing a 2% allowable growth expansion. This gives the districts a little more flexibility  with budgets.

However, the Republican controlled House of Representatives as well as Governor Branstad want 0% allowable growth. Districts get money from state aid depending on enrollment or from property taxes.

Ottumwa Schools Business Manager John Donner explains what  all this mean for parents and students.

"For Ottumwa, we're hoping it doesn't mean a whole lot. That our parents and students won't notice the difference. Our taxpayers might a little bit. It will not be greater than last year. We've already decided not to raise our levy rate. It will stay at not more than it was last years," Donner said

The decision could also affect pensions for teachers.

"The contribution rate is going up July 1 2% overall. So when you're looking at little or no new money and the contributions in pensions will take all or the majority of those funds, it puts us at question as to how are we going to manage under those circumstances," Donner said.

A public hearing on the budget will be held March 28. Visit http://www.ottumwa.k12.ia.us/