The Nashoba Regional School Committee reviewed an OPEB (other post‑employment benefits) advisory recommendation at its Dec. 17 meeting, emphasizing the gap between the district’s current asset balance and long‑term liability.

Scott, who summarized the advisory committee’s 2023 recommendations, said the district has been increasing its annual contribution over recent years. “If we continue to follow that guidance, that would mean that we would be putting $125,000 towards that asset account in the fiscal 27,” he said. He reported an asset account balance of $1,200,000 as of June 30, 2025, set against an estimated $54,000,000 liability.

The recommendation starts with adding $25,000 more annually until a $650,000 per‑year contribution threshold is reached and then outlines further steps. Scott framed the practice as voluntary (not a binding policy) but described it as prudent to help offset expected future life‑insurance and health‑premium payments for retirees.

Committee members asked about the history of contributions and when GASB guidance and Massachusetts recognition took effect; presenters said GASB guidance first issued in 2004 and Massachusetts began requiring liability recognition in 2009. The district also noted that if the committee receives one‑time revenue increases (for example, additional Chapter 70 aid or a surplus), contributing some of that money to the OPEB trust is an option.

What happens next: the committee will continue to see the OPEB line in budget planning, and budget staff will include recommended contributions when building the FY27 operating plan.

Direct quotes and figures are from the Dec. 17 meeting transcript.