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School officials describe uncertain state support as budget talks continue with county
Summary
Superintendent and board members said the General Assembly reinstated a support cap that could increase state funding, but the governor could still veto and county contributions remain unresolved ahead of the county supervisors' budget vote.
Franklin County School Board administrators told the board on April 7 that a key state funding change remains uncertain and that county funding discussions will determine how much the division can offer staff step increases.
Dr. Sears said the General Assembly reinstated the full support cap that had been reduced by the governor, but the governor has 30 days to act and could veto that reinstatement. Board members said a veto would require a two-thirds override in each chamber, a difficult path. The county board of supervisors will vote on its budget in April; early discussions between school staff and county officials produced a preliminary county contribution increase of $500,000 while the school division’s request is $3.7 million, leaving a wide gap.
Board members discussed contingency planning and potential cuts. Dr. Sears said staff have identified possible reductions and will coordinate with departments to limit impacts if the state or county funding falls short. Several board members said they hoped the reinstated support cap would stand and allow the district to fund part of a planned phase-3 step increase for employees; others said they were reluctant to support additional cuts to programs.
Board members and staff said they will monitor the governor’s action and the county supervisors’ vote and update the board when the county finalizes its contribution.
