Flagler Schools build utility increases, chiller project costs and potential IDEA grant delay into budget

Flagler County School District staff told the school board on Nov. 4 that projected increases in electric and water rates have been built into the current budget but could require cuts if final rates come in higher.

Board members asked about projected increases from Florida Power & Light and the Flagler Pankhurst water utility after vendor payments and renewals were presented. Plant‑services staff said FPL had projected roughly an 18% increase for commercial customers and that the district had already included such increases in the budget. Staff cautioned the final approved rate could be lower and that the projection drives the district’s planning assumptions.

Facilities staff also said changes in the district’s energy management systems influenced…