Penn-Trafford School District taxpayers likely will not see a property tax increase for a second consecutive year.

A $45,313,154 preliminary operating budget for the 2008-09 school year was unanimously approved by school board members Monday night. It would hold the tax millage at 71.15.

A mill generates about $268,000 in tax revenue.

The spending plan includes projected revenue of $45,064,154. The deficit, however, was offset by a $249,000 transfer from a projected budget surplus this year.

The average property assessment for the district -- made up of Trafford, Penn Township, Penn Borough and part of Manor -- is $24,000.

An average taxpayer would pay about $1,721 next year, minus a $135 Homestead Exemption under the state Taxpayer Relief Act.

The 2007-08 spending plan was the first since 1999 without a tax millage increase.

Directors must adopt a final budget by June 30.

In an unrelated matter, the directors unanimously approved the hiring of Maiello Brungo and Maiello, of Penn Hills, as the new solicitor. The firm replaces Ken Murray, who retired after 30 years.

Maiello Brungo and Maiello also represents the neighboring Norwin School District.