Residents press council for a forensic audit of Franklin City schools after FOIA salary data surfaced

Several members of the public told the Franklin City Council on April 28 that they want a full, independent forensic audit of the Franklin City School Board and central‑office finances.

Carrie Johnson asked council to demand an audit covering the tenures of multiple superintendents ‘‘to include a pay equity analysis and a complete review of how local, state, federal, and grant funds have been spent.’’ Don Spengeman provided a FOIA‑obtained salary chart for the school central office and questioned large raises, grant‑funded stipends and whether proper grant sources were identified. “What procedures are used to assure that supplanting is not occurring?” he asked, and he pressed for information on which grants fund the additional stipends.

Pam Leese, a downtown business owner, echoed calls for a forensic review and said citizens deserve answers about alleged unequal raises, questionable decisions made behind closed doors, and the apparent removal of a school principal.

Council members responded that some of the FOIA material has been requested by council leadership and that they supported investigating the information. Several members said they are open to pursuing a forensic audit if evidence warrants it and asked staff and legal counsel to explore options and procedures, including coordination with Southampton County’s actions when appropriate.

The council did not order a forensic audit at this meeting, but members directed staff to continue gathering documentation, and several members expressed support for further review. The issue remains under inquiry and may return to council with recommended next steps or legal options.