Glades County board reviews Auditor General report and introduces finance director candidate

Dr. Barfield, the district superintendent, said the board would "be as transparent as possible" about the State Auditor General's financial and single-audit report (Report 2026-160) and signaled the item will receive more review at the budget hearing.

Dr. Barfield introduced Nicole Murray to the meeting by teleconference and described her as a finance professional the district expects to hire for the finance director role. For those listening, Dr. Barfield said Murray is known locally and brings experience the district hopes will help during a period of fiscal pressure.

Public comment later in the meeting echoed calls for transparency and clearer community messaging. Nicole Murray, speaking during public comment, told the board, "we have to do a lot more with a lot less," urging improved marketing, shared governance with principals and clearer budgeting so the public understands what the numbers mean.

Why it matters: the Auditor General report prompted public concern on social media and among parents about the district's finances. Board members emphasized that the district will present findings and a single, consistent message to school leaders and the community at the upcoming budget hearing, and that additional detail will be provided to reassure parents about staffing and student services.

No vote was required on the audit item at the March 24 meeting; the board scheduled further discussion at the budget hearing and will finalize personnel action for the finance director in a later personnel action if the hiring process proceeds.