Board authorizes certification to accept state $1,500 bonus but cautions funding shortfall
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Summary
The board authorized the superintendent to certify intent to participate in the General Assembly’s one-time $1,500-per-eligible-employee bonus; staff estimated the state share at $458,408 and warned the full cost including employer FICA would require about $760,728.75 in local match if paid in FY26, leaving approval contingent on future budget decisions.
School finance staff explained the General Assembly action authorizing a one-time bonus with a state share for SOQ-funded positions and the mechanics the division would face to implement it.
Mr. Valentine (speaker 19) outlined the arithmetic: the state’s allotment for Warren County would be about $458,408; using a headcount of 755 eligible employees at $1,500 each plus employer FICA (7.65 percent) yields a gross cost of roughly $1,218,136.25. That means the division would need to provide the remaining local match of about $760,728.75 if the bonus were paid during fiscal year 2026. Valentine told the board it would likely not be possible to fund the full amount in the current fiscal year and described three options: (1) wait for staff turnover savings later in the year, (2) rely on a proposed one-time flexible state allocation in next year's budget to offset local costs, or (3) hope for higher-than-budgeted state revenue tied to enrollment. He cautioned that if sufficient local funds do not materialize the state share would be returned.
Board members discussed risks, timing and messaging to staff. One board member asked whether the division would have control over distribution methods; Valentine said the board would ultimately authorize funding and the district would bring a funding plan back for approval when revenue is known. The board voted to authorize the superintendent to sign the FY26 SRQ position bonus payment certification form indicating Warren County Public Schools’ intent to participate, with the understanding that actual distribution and funding sources would be determined later and that the bonus is not guaranteed until local funding is secured.
Mr. Valentine also noted the tax-withholding effect: "When you hear $1,500 and you think, wow, that's good... the check is $900 or $1,100," reflecting required withholding and advising that net amounts will vary.
The board’s action preserved the state share while leaving the payment decision contingent on subsequent budget developments and formal board approval of funding sources.
