MSD of Steuben County Board approves teacher pact, 2026 budget and multiple resolutions

MSD of Steuben County Board of Trustees on Oct. 21 approved a package of routine and policy items, including a tentative collective bargaining agreement with teachers, the district's 2026 budget adoption forms, bus and capital project plans, and several administrative resolutions.

The measures were front-loaded at the start of the board's regular business meeting and were approved by roll call. All recorded roll-call votes in the public record were 6–0 in favor.

Votes at a glance

- Tentative teachers collective bargaining agreement: Motion to approve the tentative agreement carried (roll call: Mr. Archibald, Mr. Beard, Mrs. Maggert, Mr. Poor, Mr. Ridenour, Mr. Surrey — all “yes”; outcome: approved). The agreement was described in public comment by teacher bargaining representatives as “employee friendly” and subject to formal ratification by the teachers’ bargaining unit. The transcript records the association’s public remarks in support of the negotiated terms.

- 2026 budget adoption (Form 4) and associated resolutions: Motion to adopt the 2026 budget forms for submission to Gateway/DLGF carried (6–0). Administrators said the forms intentionally advertise higher debt-service levies to preserve flexibility during bond closing; the DLGF review period (including the 1782 notice) will allow the district to lower levies and rates before those figures become final.

- Bus replacement five-year plan (2026–2030): Approved…