Buncombe County Schools outlines budget plan amid funding challenges

Buncombe County's budget planning took a significant turn during the recent Board of Commissioners Budget Work Session, as officials outlined the financial landscape for the upcoming year. With the governor's budget and the Senate's budget already received, the county is still awaiting the House budget, which is crucial for finalizing local financial strategies.

The county's budget proposal includes a projected salary increase of approximately 3% for certified staff, with a total increase of about 4.13% when factoring in step increases. Non-certified staff can expect a 2% raise, with a total of around 3% including step increases. These adjustments reflect the county's commitment to supporting its workforce while being mindful of taxpayer resources.

A key highlight from the session was the acknowledgment of the county commissioners' investment in local schools, which has allowed for the funding of 661 full-time equivalent positions through local dollars. This support is vital, as state funding often falls short in meeting the personnel needs of Buncombe County Schools. The local investment is crucial, especially since salary increases for state-paid employees do not extend to those funded locally, placing additional financial pressure on the county.

The budget also accounts for 238 federally funded employees, whose salaries are not covered by state increases, further complicating the local budget landscape. As the county navigates these financial challenges, officials emphasized their commitment to being good stewards of taxpayer resources while ensuring that the educational needs of students are met.

As the budget process continues, the county awaits the House budget, which will play a pivotal role in shaping the final financial plan for Buncombe County.