School board approves benefit cost split, 16 leased vehicles and consultant contracts; several votes draw detailed debate

The Gadsden County School Board on July 22 approved a package of personnel- and operations-related items after extended discussion about fiscal impact and timing, including maintaining the district978% contribution toward CHP health plans, absorbing an increase in dental premiums, entering a lease arrangement for 16 vehicles with Enterprise Fleet Management, and contracting for finance consulting services.

Board members raised repeated concerns that the district had not completed budget hearings before voting on items that will affect next year99s costs. Board Member Hannigan said she was uncomfortable voting without budget discussion but moved to approve the finance department99s recommended split "in the interest of our staff and our employees," proposing to "go with the finance department's recommendation of maintaining the district, maintaining the 78% payment" for CHP and for the district to absorb the dental increase.

The superintendent recommended "to hold to the 78%" contribution for CHP and that the district absorb the dental premium increase. Finance staff told the board the district99s share of maintaining the 78% would increase the budget by about $279,000; absorbing the dental…