The nearly $2 million shortfall in the Reynolds Area School District budget could have been predicted several years ago, according to research done by the Reynolds Taxpayer Task Force.

Residents Frank W. O'Malia of Delaware Township and Condit North of Fredonia formed the task force last month to research and explain to residents what led to the deficit.

O'Malia said at Wednesday's school board meeting that spending and income trends between 1996 and 1998 predict a $1.8 million deficit in 2002. Trends between 1996 and 1999 point to a $1.9 million deficit, while trends between 1996 and 2001 again show a $1.8 million shortfall.

"Just from total revenues, you could predict what the shortfall would be in 2002," O'Malia said.

O'Malia said the task force has begun verifying the accuracy of the data it collected and will next tackle the recently completed 2001-02 audit, which is on file at the district office.

Other members of the task force are Frank A. D'Urso Jr. and Charles H. Hayes of West Salem Township and Edward J. Hnida and Beverly P. Morrison of Pymatuning Township.