School board approves using returned ESSER reimbursements toward high school bond obligation

The Halifax County School Board voted unanimously to apply recent ESSER reimbursements and other one-time revenues to reduce the district's remaining obligation tied to the new high school project.

Board members approved a finance plan presented by district staff that directs anticipated ESSER reimbursements for HVAC work and other one-time funds toward the school division's remaining $2.7 million obligation of a previously agreed $4 million local contribution. The board took the measure during its July meeting after a staff presentation on available funding and timing.

Board discussion and staff presentation

Doctor Bucklew, the district finance presenter, told the board that $560,915.34 in HVAC contractor payments from the prior fiscal year are eligible for reimbursement and that the division expects to receive that amount once the reimbursement claim is filed.

"That money can be utilized to help with our obligation," Doctor Bucklew said. "That's money that was last year. So this money is coming in, and it's free and clear."

Bucklew laid out three sources the board was being asked to commit: (1) the ESSER reimbursement for HVAC contractor bills already paid, (2) anticipated ESSER revenue expected after work finishes this fiscal year, and (3) a contingent portion of Shockey's project contingency funds that could revert to the division. Combined, staff presented those sources as sufficient to cover the outstanding obligation without touching the division's operating budget or carryover.

Board members pressed for timing and contingencies. Board member Runyon asked when the ESSER reimbursement would arrive; Bucklew said the expected payments should be filed and received within about 30 days after submission and that project closeout work was scheduled before students return. Members also asked whether the Shockey contingency could be reduced and were told that number remained uncertain until demolition and final billing finish.

Formal action

A motion was made to approve the finance plan as presented by Doctor Bucklew; the board called for a roll-call vote. The clerk read the roll and the motion passed 7-0. The recorded roll call included District 1 (Mr. Brown) through District 8 (Mr. Fox) with each voting yes; the clerk announced, "Motion carries 7 0."

Why it matters

The approved plan directs federal ESSER reimbursements and other nonrecurring revenues at the division's outstanding obligation on the new high school, reducing pressure on the system's operating budget. Board members emphasized that the funds being used are reimbursements and interest/variance revenues, not reallocated recurring instructional funds.

What remains

Staff said they will file for reimbursement and monitor the Shockey contingency; if the contingency funds do not fully revert, staff said they will seek alternatives. The board directed staff to proceed with the plan approved at the meeting.

Votes at a glance

- Approve plan to apply ESSER reimbursements and one-time revenues to high school obligation: passed by roll-call vote, 7-0.

Speakers quoted in this article are listed in the record of the meeting and were identified by the board or staff during the July session.