School committee receives first reading of FY26 operating budget that increases revenues by $2.17 million

Superintendent Michael Watson presented the fiscal year 2026 operating budget to the Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School Committee on Tuesday, describing revenue increases, contractual obligations and planned reallocations for next year.

Watson told the committee FY26 total revenues are increasing by $2,168,405 and walked members through enrollment-based assessments, state Chapter 70 aid and district-fixed costs. "The total revenues to greater than the total 10 for the next fiscal year are increasing by $2,168,405," he said, noting Chapter 70 aid and regional transportation adjustments were major drivers.

Nut graf: The first reading highlighted personnel and benefit pressures — including a 3.25% cost-of-living adjustment and an 8.9% projected health-care increase — and outlined staffing reallocations and targeted program expansions ahead of a public hearing and second reading on April 29.

Watson said the budget includes approximately $1.23 million to fully fund contractual salary obligations that cover a 3.25% cost-of-living adjustment and step/lane increases, and about $618,000 to cover a forecasted 8.9% increase in health-care costs. He said those two items together account for the bulk of the revenue increase and leave limited discretionary funds.

The presentation included enrollment data (2,163 students as of Oct. 1), and community shares showing Dartmouth at just under 15% of enrollment, another district partner at 7.7% and New Bedford representing roughly three-quarters of students. Watson explained the Chapter 70 funding formula determines minimum contributions and can yield higher assessments for communities with different relative ability to pay.

Watson outlined personnel moves that he said would be made by reallocating existing positions rather than adding new payroll dollars. "There will be new positions, new responsibilities, or realignment of tasks. No new dollars. No new bodies," Watson said. The FY26 proposal also includes targeted expansions in student life and athletics (about $86,000), additional CTE supplies and credentialing (roughly $28,000), and approximately $100,000 for facilities inflationary increases. Watson said capital renovation planning includes a $1.5 million figure that the administration will break down upon request.

Committee members asked for clarifications on purchase vs. lease for technology and on a project list for the capital renovations; the administration agreed to provide a detailed breakdown prior to the April 29 second reading and public hearing. Watson said the formal vote to approve the FY26 budget will take place at the April 29 meeting after the public hearing.

Ending: The committee unanimously voted to receive the first reading of the FY26 operating budget; the public hearing and second reading are scheduled for April 29, at which the committee will vote to adopt or amend the budget.