Superintendent briefs board on budget outlook: external cost adjustment boost but health insurance and staffing remain key pressures

Superintendent Thomas updated the board on the district’s fiscal outlook following the recent legislative session and reviewed staffing data comparing Uinta County to peer districts.

Thomas said Legislative Service Office (LSO) estimates place the district’s external cost adjustment (ECA) impact at about $1.74 million, but district calculations using payroll data indicate the figure is closer to $1.6 million; he said roughly 85% of any ECA increase typically funds salaries and benefits. Thomas cautioned that the district expects about $70,000 less in health‑insurance funding than last year because of state funding adjustments and that health insurance remains a major line item (he noted roughly $7.3 million in health insurance spending in a roughly $50 million budget). He said consultants will present to the district’s health‑insurance committee the following day.

Thomas also presented state staffing comparisons showing the district is “lean” on central administration relative to many districts while carrying comparatively higher levels of classroom and support staff. He said the district added full‑time dean positions at the high school and middle school as part of a strategic plan on student behavior and noted the district’s preference to invest in support and classroom staff. Thomas said he plans to propose a revised certified‑staff salary schedule during negotiations intended to improve competitiveness for teacher recruitment.

Board members asked clarifying questions about where additional money will be directed, timelines for meet‑and‑confer and consultations on health insurance, and staffing implications for upcoming contracts. Thomas said staff will firm numbers before formal meet‑and‑confer with employee associations and will return with proposals.