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Board to advertise public hearing after $417,625 state funds increase for Lunenburg schools
Summary
Assistant Superintendent James Abernathy told the board that Average Daily Membership rose from 1,467 to 1,521, producing a $417,625 increase in FY2020 state funds; the board voted to advertise a public hearing to amend the School Board budget to $18,518,401.
The Lunenburg County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on July 9 to advertise a public hearing to increase FY2020 School Board state funds revenue by $417,625, an amendment that would raise the School Board’s total FY2020 budget to $18,518,401.
Assistant Superintendent and Finance Director James Abernathy told the board the increase stems from a rise in Average Daily Membership from a projected 1,467 to an actual 1,521; that change will boost state revenue by $417,625. Abernathy also noted decreases in state sales tax and lottery revenues tied to the COVID‑19 pandemic but said the increase in state funds should offset those losses. Administrator Tracy M. Gee reminded the board that the increase exceeds one percent of the county budget and therefore requires a public hearing under county procedures.
School Superintendent Charles Berkley said the local school division will issue a detailed letter after the School Board meets outlining reopening plans for the 2020‑21 year, including contingency measures for COVID‑19 outbreaks. Berkley said the division plans to provide each student with a computer or tablet and to place Wi‑Fi hotspots in county areas with limited internet access; those devices and hotspots will be purchased with CARES Act funds.
Supervisor T. Wayne Hoover moved to advertise the public hearing; Supervisor Alvester Edmonds seconded and the motion passed by roll call with all seven supervisors voting yes. The public hearing will be scheduled as required by county procedures.
