Local School System Faces $15M Vendor Debt Amid Budget Challenges

The Forsyth County Board of County Commissioners held a briefing on August 11, 2025, addressing several pressing issues related to school infrastructure, budget concerns, and vendor debts. The meeting highlighted the collective responsibility of various stakeholders, including state, county, municipal, and school officials, in ensuring safe access to schools.

The discussion began with a focus on the challenges surrounding school infrastructure, particularly the lack of sidewalks, crosswalks, and signage at older schools. Officials noted that while new policies and ordinances are in place for newly constructed or renovated schools, many existing schools do not meet these standards. This has led to safety concerns for students accessing these facilities. The concept of "Safe Routes to Schools" was introduced as a potential framework for improving safety and collaboration among different entities.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the financial challenges facing the school system, particularly a vendor debt totaling approximately $15 million, with a third owed to the county. The conversation centered on the possibility of offsetting this debt rather than issuing direct payments, which could lead to further financial strain. Officials expressed hope for flexibility in repayment terms and emphasized the need for ongoing discussions about future appropriations.

Concerns were raised regarding the allocation of funds, specifically a $4.5 million budget intended for school resource officers that had been redirected for other uses. This decision sparked debate about transparency and accountability within the school system, with some commissioners expressing disappointment over the prioritization of other expenditures over student safety.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the ongoing budget crisis and the need for careful financial planning moving forward. Officials acknowledged that while there is potential for improvement in the fiscal landscape, significant adjustments are still required to ensure a balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to address the challenges facing Forsyth County schools effectively.