The Socorro Independent School District (SISD) Board of Trustees convened for a special meeting on September 30, 2025, to discuss critical financial matters, particularly concerning employee health benefits and projected deficits for the upcoming plan years.

The meeting began with a presentation on the projected rates for 2026, highlighting two plans that could potentially lead to deficits of $3 million and $5 million, respectively. The Chief Human Resources Officer, Selena Styles, emphasized the importance of monitoring the employee contribution rates, which are projected to be $50.50 per month per employee. The board was informed that the Benefits Advisory Committee would continue to evaluate the health plan's performance and make recommendations for the 2027 plan year.

A significant point of discussion was the potential impact of the upcoming VADER vote, which could bring in approximately $49 million in additional revenue. Board members expressed concerns about how this influx could be allocated, particularly in relation to addressing the projected deficits. The Chief Financial Officer, David Solis, noted that while the additional revenue would improve the district's cash position, it would still require careful planning to avoid future deficits.

The board deliberated on the implications of adopting a one-time infusion of $9 million to address the deficit versus a more incremental approach with smaller deficits. Members raised concerns about the emotional impact of these decisions on employees and the need for a thoughtful and purposeful approach to resource allocation.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the board would need to make decisions promptly to meet the open enrollment period for the 2026 plan year, which begins on January 1, 2026. The timeline for these decisions was emphasized, with a need to provide employees with adequate information and options.

In conclusion, the SISD Board of Trustees acknowledged the complexity of the financial situation and the necessity of making informed decisions that would balance immediate needs with long-term fiscal responsibility. The board agreed to hold another workshop to explore additional options before making a final decision, ensuring that all stakeholders are adequately informed and prepared for the upcoming changes.