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Board committee outlines budget cuts, personnel reductions and two referendum-funded facility projects
Summary
Committees reported a second round of recommended staff reductions, a five-year budget forecast in development, and approval of two referendum-funded summer projects: an elevator replacement and blacktop repaving.
Board committees on Tuesday discussed a second round of recommended staff reductions, explored additional cost-saving measures districtwide and approved two referendum-funded facilities projects for summer work.
Personnel Committee chair reported difficult staffing decisions are under consideration and described the impact on individuals and district services. The committee heard a list of open positions, a new hire recommendation for a special-education teacher at J. P. Case, two leave replacements and contract start-date amendments. The chair said the reduction decisions "weigh heavy on our entire district community" and that the next personnel meeting is scheduled for March 3.
Operations committee members said administrators are preparing a five-year budget forecast to evaluate the sustainability of current reductions and final budget numbers, including state aid, will be shared at a future meeting. The committee identified personnel, supplies and programs as areas under review for cuts. Board members also discussed coordination with Raritan Township leadership; notes from the committee meeting said Township Mayor Bob King and Councilman Scott Sipos were briefed on district budget challenges and expressed understanding while declining direct financial assistance.
Facilities items approved by the committee and recommended for board action were two referendum-funded projects: replacement of the Francis Hay Daymar elevator (cited as frequently breaking) and repaving of the Bridal blacktop. Both projects were awarded to the lowest bidders and scheduled to be executed as early as summer.
The committee also reported continued evaluation of solar options and longer-term facilities planning. Administrators said further recommendations will follow as the five-year forecast is developed.
No final binding decisions about the second round of staff reductions were announced in open session; votes on personnel and operations agenda bundles were taken during the meeting (see "Votes at a glance"). The board invited the public to a budget town hall on February 26 and reminded residents of the March 11 budget vote.
