During a recent meeting, the Fluvanna County Board of Supervisors discussed a supplemental appropriation for the Manatee County Public Schools' fiscal year 2025 budget, amounting to $3,211,343.17. This increase is attributed to additional state and federal revenues, which include $2.9 million from state sources and $305,000 from federal sources. The total budget for the schools is set at $107.5 million, and the proposed amendment exceeds the 1% threshold, necessitating a public hearing.

The public hearing was held following the required advertisement, and no comments were received from the public. The board unanimously approved the supplemental appropriation, emphasizing that all funds are sourced from state and federal allocations, with no local funds involved.

In addition to the budget discussions, James Kelly, a local resident, addressed the board regarding salary competitiveness for school staff. He highlighted concerns that despite previous investments in education, salary disparities between Fluvanna County and neighboring divisions have widened, with some positions offering significantly higher pay elsewhere. Kelly urged the board to consider these disparities seriously, noting that retention of staff may be at risk if salaries do not improve.

Kelly also mentioned ongoing efforts to conduct a student enrollment study, which has seen a reduction in projected costs from $30,000 to approximately $12,000 to $15,000. He expressed confidence in the upcoming discussions regarding this study and the importance of understanding enrollment trends for future planning.

The meeting concluded with a mention of additional carryover requests related to unanticipated expenditures, including maintenance issues and ongoing projects, such as renovations to Central Elementary bathrooms. The board is expected to continue addressing these financial matters in future sessions.