Supervisors approve FY26 school funding formula and rescind joint MOU with school board

The Westmoreland County Board of Supervisors approved the completed school funding calculation for fiscal year 2026 and, in a separate set of votes, rescinded a previously approved memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Westmoreland County School Board.

Miss Cargesway told the board staff and the county attorney had reviewed a draft to ensure compliance with state statute and county ordinance; the calculation identifies revenue sources to support the Westmoreland County School System for FY26. Board members questioned who bears responsibility for preparing the formula historically and emphasized transparency; the board then moved and approved the FY26 calculation.

Following an extended staff review with bond counsel and school representatives, staff recommended rescinding the joint MOU, voiding a joint capital reserve fund and reinstating funds to the original accounts so the school would receive $1,700,000 and the county $900,000. Staff said the MOU and a combined capital reserve fund could place the county at a disadvantage by mixing debt service responsibilities; the county attorney agreed rescinding and separating the funds would be preferable. The board voted three times—(1) rescind the existing MOU; (2) authorize the treasurer to void the joint investment funds; and (3) authorize the treasurer to reinstate funds to their original accounts—and each motion carried.

Board members asked clarifying questions about projects already underway; staff said existing loans and contracts remain in place and that ongoing projects will proceed under the terms of existing agreements. The board directed the treasurer and finance director to complete the accounting adjustments and report back as needed.

The actions are intended to separate county and school capital funding and to ensure the statutory school funding calculation for FY26 is on record.