School Board amends budget by $1.5M to address unexpected expenses and new projects

The Ball Chatham CUSD 5 School Board convened on May 28, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to the district's financial plans, focusing on budget adjustments and funding sources. The meeting highlighted the complexities of school financing, particularly regarding fund accounting and the management of various revenue streams.

The board addressed amendments to five funds, with two amendments driven by increased expenses and three related to a recent bond referendum. The adjustments included a notable increase in both revenue and expenses by $670,000, primarily due to the YNAB donation fund, which necessitated an increase in asset listings for auditing purposes.

Additionally, the district received $170,000 in grant funding, which is contingent on the effective use of previous grants by the schools. The discussion also covered the allocation of bond money, which initially enters the working cash fund before being transferred to operations and maintenance for project funding.

Transportation expenses were a key topic, with the board noting unexpected costs due to health insurance for bus drivers, the purchase of 19 new buses, and additional expenses for repairs and camera systems. The transportation fund saw an increase of $250,000, attributed to these factors and a significant rise in special education transportation costs.

The board emphasized that while the financial outlook showed increased expenses, much of this was due to the movement of funds rather than actual spending. The district's funding structure was outlined, revealing that 77% of revenue comes from local sources, primarily levies, with state funding contributing 19%.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to managing its finances effectively while addressing immediate needs through strategic funding and budgeting. The board plans to continue monitoring these financial adjustments closely, ensuring that the district remains on track to meet its operational and educational goals without increasing the tax burden on the community.