Superintendent Presents FY 2027 Capital Budget Proposal for School Construction

The Howard County Board of Education convened on August 21, 2025, to discuss the superintendent's proposal for the Fiscal Year 2027 state capital budget, focusing on improving the planning and prioritization of school construction projects. The meeting highlighted significant changes in the capital budget process aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in funding allocation.

Executive Director of Capital Planning and Construction, Dan Lubley, presented an overview of the proposed budget, which includes a total request of approximately $48.4 million. This figure comprises $27.1 million in state funding and a local match of $21.3 million. The proposed projects prioritize security enhancements, systemic maintenance, and deferred maintenance, with specific initiatives including HVAC renovations and roof replacements at various schools.

A key aspect of the discussion was the introduction of a new prioritization process for capital projects, which aims to rely on data-driven decisions rather than community advocacy alone. This approach is intended to ensure that funding is allocated based on the actual needs of the schools, as assessed through a comprehensive educational facilities master plan. The board approved this plan earlier in the year, marking a significant shift in how projects are evaluated and funded.

The meeting also addressed the complexities of state funding, with board members expressing concerns about the declining percentage of state contributions to local projects. The state's funding formula considers various factors, including the affluence of individual counties, which has led to a decrease in the percentage of funding allocated to Howard County. This has prompted discussions on how to maximize available state funds while ensuring that local needs are met.

Board members emphasized the importance of clear communication with the community regarding project prioritization and funding decisions. They acknowledged that many residents may be confused about why certain projects are prioritized over others and stressed the need for transparency in the decision-making process.

As the board prepares for a public hearing in September, they plan to provide additional clarity on the capital budget process and the rationale behind project selections. The next steps include finalizing negotiations with consultants for an educational sufficiency study, which will further inform future capital planning efforts.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to improving the capital budget process and ensuring that funding is effectively utilized to meet the needs of Howard County Public Schools.