Blackstone‑Millville previews FY26 budget and five‑year capital plan; committee approves calendar and routine motions

Administration presented a high‑level preview of the FY26 budget and a five‑year capital plan at the Dec. 12 meeting, emphasizing student enrollment (~1,500), a steady proportion of high‑needs students, rising health‑insurance and tuition costs, and multiple facility repair needs at Blackstone‑Millville Regional High School that drive capital demands.

Facilities director Scott presented a five‑year plan with priority short‑term projects for FY26 that include playground replacement, cafeteria tile repairs, window and roof section work, security system upgrades at elementary sites and replacement/repairs to aging vehicles. Scott estimated a FY26 short‑term capital request of approximately $1,350,000; he noted the number is an estimate based on prior reports and a 17% contingency and will go out to bid.

On personnel and staffing, the administration signaled early requests for two elementary teacher positions (second and third grade) and three high‑school positions (electives, science, social studies) as possible FY26 additions; estimated cost per teacher was discussed as an upper bound for budgeting purposes.

The committee also took care of several routine votes: approval of the 2025–26 school calendar, authorization to negotiate a Unit C side letter for instructional‑assistant mentors, approval of a budget journal, disposal of surplus items and approval of facilities use requests. Many procedural motions passed unanimously; the health‑unit materials vote was the most contentious (4–3). The meeting closed with a roll call vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining strategy.

What happens next: A detailed draft budget will be presented to the committee on Jan. 9, with cost‑center presentations scheduled through February and a public hearing to follow. Scott will refine capital estimates and return with bid‑ready figures.