Board approves publication of proposed $180.2M FY2027 budget and appoints Nicole Kemper treasurer

The Monongalia County Board of Education voted on May 13 to publish its proposed FY2027 budget for public inspection ahead of a May 26 public hearing and final adoption.

A finance presenter reviewed the draft operating budget of $180,229,260, saying revenues included roughly $76.1 million in taxes, $3.7 million in local sources, about $90.9 million in state sources, $500,000 in Medicaid billings and roughly $239,000 in indirect federal costs, with an estimated beginning balance of $8.7 million. The presenter said taxes increased by about $4 million from the current year, partly reflecting a rebound in oil and gas valuations, and that 85% of general taxes count as local share in the state funding formula.

On expenditures, the presenter said instruction represents roughly 52.84% of the operating budget, with salaries and employee benefits accounting for about 79% of the budget. The proposed budget includes the state pay raise (about $1,560 for professionals and $870 for service personnel), an estimated PEIA increase and maintenance of 125 employees over formula; the presenter said the district will continue universal free meals and summer programming in 2027. The board approved the superintendent’s recommendation to publish the proposal by voice vote.

Earlier in the meeting the superintendent recommended that the board appoint Nicole Kemper as treasurer (an annual board action); the motion to appoint Kemper carried by voice vote.

No final budget adoption occurred at this meeting; the board scheduled a public hearing and a vote on May 26.