In a recent government meeting, board members engaged in a critical discussion regarding the potential implications of an upcoming referendum on the 2025-2026 budget. The primary focus was on whether to prepare a resolution outlining necessary budget reductions should the referendum fail.

The chair initiated the conversation by posing four key questions to the board. First, they sought clarity on whether the board wished to proceed with drafting a resolution for the next regular meeting. Second, they requested feedback on proposed budget reductions identified in a prior study session. The chair emphasized the importance of keeping discussions general to avoid alarming staff about potential job cuts before a decision is made.

The chair estimated that approximately $16.7 million could be saved through broad budget proposals, but cautioned against specifying which schools might face closures without further analysis. The final question addressed what additional information board members would need to inform their decision-making in the upcoming meetings.

Director Workman expressed the emotional toll of budget cuts, stating, “We never want to do this,” highlighting the negative impact on both staff and students. Director Barlow echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the necessity of preparing for potential cuts and raising questions about how proposed reductions would affect personnel and class sizes.

The meeting underscored the urgency of the situation, as board members recognized the difficult choices ahead and the need for thorough discussion and analysis before any decisions are made.